Over 19,000 active seafarers registered in Georgia, Prime Minister

Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze announced that over 19,000 active seafarers are currently registered in Georgia, reflecting what he described as the growing popularity of the maritime profession and the effectiveness of the country’s education system.

Speaking at an event in Batumi marking International Seafarers Day, Kobakhidze emphasized the strategic importance of the maritime sector for Georgia’s development and highlighted recent reforms aimed at aligning the country’s standards with those of international organizations.

“Numerous reforms have been implemented in the areas of seafarer education and certification,” he said. “We have adopted standards from the International Maritime Organization (IMO) and the European Union, and this reform process will continue.”

He also noted Georgia’s long-standing membership in the IMO since 1993 and emphasized the country’s recent successful international audit and sustained placement on the IMO “white list,” which indicates compliance with global maritime norms.

The Prime Minister highlighted efforts to modernize and digitize the sector, including the launch of a National Maritime Single Window in October 2024, which has simplified vessel entry and exit procedures in ports. A new electronic platform for improving port logistics management is also being introduced, he added.

Kobakhidze pointed to Georgia’s unique geographic position as a key advantage in facilitating international trade and regional connectivity. “We are increasingly becoming a reliable link between Europe and Asia through the Middle Corridor project,” he said, adding that this development further strengthens the role of Georgian seafarers.

He concluded by expressing appreciation for the work of maritime professionals: “I thank every seafarer for their heroic service. Without their dedication, Georgia’s progress would not be possible. I wish them calm seas, safe navigation, and a peaceful return home.”