The Panama Maritime Authority has announced a 12% rise in employment contracts for Panamanian seafarers during the first four months of 2025 a promising result attributed to the strategic efforts led by the Seafarer Recruitment Committee.
During the closing session of the Committee’s 17th meeting, Felipe Arias, Acting Director General of Seafarers (DGGM), reaffirmed the PMA’s steadfast commitment to generating quality employment within the maritime, logistics, and port sectors. He described this endeavor as part of a comprehensive “State vision,” shaped by collaborative work between public institutions and private stakeholders.
Mayte Burgos, Head of the Maritime Labour Affairs Department (DALM), presented the latest figures, revealing that 307 seafarer contracts were registered between January and April 2025. This marks a 12.04% increase compared to 274 contracts recorded in 2024, and a 21.34% rise from the 253 contracts in 2023 underscoring a steady upward trajectory.
The Panama Maritime Authority has announced a 12% rise in employment contracts for Panamanian seafarers during the first four months of 2025 a promising result attributed to the strategic efforts led by the Seafarer Recruitment Committee.
During the closing session of the Committee’s 17th meeting, Felipe Arias, Acting Director General of Seafarers (DGGM), reaffirmed the PMA’s steadfast commitment to generating quality employment within the maritime, logistics, and port sectors. He described this endeavor as part of a comprehensive “State vision,” shaped by collaborative work between public institutions and private stakeholders.
Mayte Burgos, Head of the Maritime Labour Affairs Department (DALM), presented the latest figures, revealing that 307 seafarer contracts were registered between January and April 2025. This marks a 12.04% increase compared to 274 contracts recorded in 2024, and a 21.34% rise from the 253 contracts in 2023 underscoring a steady upward trajectory.
Panama currently maintains 11 international mutual recognition instruments under Regulation I/10 of the amended STCW Convention, allowing for enhanced professional mobility and recognition. On the national front, the PM continues to collaborate with the National Institute for Professional Training and Human Development (INADEH) to evaluate and elevate English language proficiency an essential tool for navigating today’s globalized maritime landscape.
The Committee meeting also served as a springboard for future initiatives. Among the proposals: working alongside the Ministry of Education (MEDUCA) and the Specialized Higher Technical Institute (ITSE) to revamp the Maritime Baccalaureate curriculum, tailoring it to the evolving demands of the industry. Additionally, a cooperation agreement with the Ministry of Labor and Workforce Development (MITRADEL) is being considered to develop a centralized database of maritime job opportunities.
Established in 2019 and operating under the DGGM, the Seafarer Recruitment Committee convenes quarterly with the mission of fostering employment and strengthening the skills of Panamanian seafarers. By bringing together shipowners, seafarers’ representatives, and educational institutions, the Committee continues to play a pivotal role in streamlining recruitment efforts and opening doors to meaningful, sustainable careers at sea.
source: source: cyprusshippingnews.com
