Panama Maritime Authority recovers US$8.5 million in unpaid wages to seafarers

The Panama Maritime Authority (AMP) strengthened its collaborative ties with the International Transport Workers' Federation (ITF) during a recent visit by ITF delegates to the Directorate General of Seafarers (DGGM). The meeting focused on strengthening the protection and well-being of maritime workers sailing under the Panamanian flag.

A focal point of the meeting was the Panama’s AMP - Directorate General of Seafarer’s significant efforts to recover $8.5 million in unpaid wages owed to seafarers by the end of 2024.

This figure represents a 52.70% increase compared to the previous year, when $5,593,941.82 was recovered, underscoring Panama's commitment as a responsible maritime administration to ensuring decent work and compliance with labour regulations.

The AMP's active management was also reflected in the response to 271 inquiries and 312 maritime labour complaints during 2024, facilitating the repatriation of 368 crew members of various nationalities.

These actions were made possible thanks to effective coordination with shipowners, operators, and P&I Clubs. 343 maritime labour inspections were also carried out on vessels operating in domestic and international service.

Looking ahead to the remainder of 2025, the AMP reaffirmed its commitment to continue rigorously monitoring the implementation of legal regulations and international conventions ratified by Panama, including the STCW 1978, as amended, and the MLC  2006, as amended. Steve Trowsdale, ITF Inspector Coordinator, praised Panama's work, particularly in handling labour complaints and recovering unpaid wages. He highlighted the productive nature of the meeting, which enabled them to exchange views and evaluate possible improvements, reaffirming the shared purpose of both organisations to ensure the well-being of seafarers.

The ITF delegation also included Edgar Ortiz, ITF Regional Secretary for the Americas; Vladimir Small Ortiz, ITF National Coordinator and member of the Union of Marine Engineers (UIM); and Bernardo Campos, a retired UIM member. They were welcomed by DGGM officials.

This meeting underscores the importance of collaboration between the AMP and the ITF to ensure fair treatment and adequate working conditions for seafarers, with a primary focus on resolving unpaid wage cases.