Georgia's seafarer workforce surpasses 21,000, Maritime Transport Agency chief

Georgia has more than 21,000 certified seafarers, up from approximately 8,600 in 2012, according to Ivane Abashidze, who described the growth as one of the country's most successful professional transformations.

Speaking at an event marking the Day of the Seafarer on Friday, Abashidze said the profession of a seafarer represents far more than a job, characterizing it as a way of life that requires dedication, resilience, and a strong sense of responsibility.

“Today we celebrate a profession that is more than just a job,” Abashidze said. “The sea has always attracted exceptional individuals - those capable of enduring difficult challenges, making complex decisions, and remaining calm in critical situations.”

The head of the Maritime Transport Agency of Georgia noted that seafarers play a vital role in global trade, energy transportation, and international supply chains, even though their contribution often remains largely unseen by the public.

According to Abashidze, the number of Georgian seafarers has increased from around 8,600 in 2012 to more than 21,000 today.

“This is one of the most successful professional transformations in the modern history of our country,” he said.

Abashidze stressed that the profession has evolved beyond traditional employment and now represents an export of high-value technical knowledge and expertise that generates significant economic benefits for Georgia.

He argued that professional seafarers form the foundation of a broader maritime economy encompassing ship management, maritime services, logistics, ports, and the wider transportation ecosystem.

“The experience of leading maritime nations shows that a strong maritime industry always begins with strong seafarers,” Abashidze said. “Professional seafarers are the key prerequisite for fully realizing Georgia's maritime potential.”

During his address, Abashidze also paid tribute to previous generations of Georgian seafarers who “helped build the country's professional reputation across the world's seas and oceans.”

He concluded by congratulating active seafarers on their professional holiday and wishing them safe voyages, calm seas, and a safe return home.