Japan introduces local recruitment services to address seafarer shortages

Japan introduces local recruitment services to address seafarer shortages
The Editorial Team November 12, 2026 https://safety4sea.com/japan-introduces-local-recruitment-services-to-ad...

Japan has introduced free seafarer recruitment services through local governments as part of efforts to address workforce shortages and improve employment opportunities.

According to an announcement issued by Japan’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) in October, three local authorities became the first in the country to register plans to operate free seafarer job placement services.

The initiative follows amendments to Japan’s Seafarers’ Employment Security Act, which allow local governments to act as intermediaries between maritime employers and jobseekers. Previously, seafarer employment placement activities were generally restricted to the national government.

The revised framework aims to support recruitment by allowing local authorities to match shipping companies with prospective seafarers based on regional employment needs.

According to the BIMCO and ICS Seafarer Workforce Report 2026, the global shipping sector faces a shortage of approximately 39,100 STCW-certified officers, highlighting the need for sustained recruitment and workforce development.

First three local authorities

According to MLIT, the following authorities were scheduled to begin offering the services in November 2026, Sasebo City, Toba City, Nagasaki Prefecture. Under the new system, local governments can receive job vacancies and applications, facilitate communication between employers and candidates, and support the establishment of employment relationships.

The services must operate on a non-profit basis, without collecting placement fees or other financial compensation.

The legal amendments were adopted in 2025 as part of broader reforms intended to address Japan’s worsening seafarer shortages and modernize employment-related procedures. By involving local authorities, Japan aims to create more accessible recruitment channels and better connect available workers with maritime employers.