The report also estimates that 2026 will see a shortage of 39,100 STCW certified officers and a surplus of 56,890 ratings. Also read: IMO and shipping in the crossfire of global politicsEver more demandThe Seafarer Workforce Report is published every five years and was last issued in 2021. The report provides a comprehensive overview of the supply and demand balance for STCW certified seafarers. ‘The recruitment, training and retention of the seafarer workforce will be crucial to ensuring that our industry is prepared for the future. The report can help ensure that recruitment and employment policies are future focused,’ says BIMCO Secretary General and CEO, David Loosley.