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The Merchant Shipping Directorate has issued the minimum basic wage for seafarers for 2026 to 2028 pursuant to Rule 51 of the Merchant Shipping (Maritime Labour Convention) Rules (S.L. 234.51).
The minimum basic wage for a calendar month of service for an ‘able seaman’ shall be:
or the equivalent amount in the currency specified in the crew's agreement.
Rule 50 of S.L. 234.51 defines "able seaman" as a person in possession of a certificate as A.B. issued or recognised under the Merchant Shipping (Training and Certification) Regulation (S.L. 234.17).
Stakeholders are advised to review their agreements and ensure compliance with these updated wage standards to avoid any discrepancies and ensure fair treatment of seafarers.
*The EUR equivalent is based on the exchange rate at the time of publication of this article.