In an effort to further improve the welfare of seafarers, the Malta Merchant Shipping Directorate has issued Merchant Shipping Notice 190, announcing the promulgation of the Merchant Shipping (Maritime Labour Convention) (Amendment) Rules, 2025 (Legal Notice 26 of 2025). These new rules, which were published on 4 February 2025, introduce key changes to the Maritime Labour Convention, 2006 (MLC, 2006), following the approval of amendments at the 110th session of the International Labour Conference in 2022.
What’s New in the MLC Amendments?
The amendments, which took effect internationally on 23 December 2024, are designed to address issues faced by seafarers during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly the prolonged isolation experienced by many due to the crew change crisis. Here are the key changes that shipowners must comply with:
- Recreational Facilities & Connectivity Shipowners are now required to ensure that their vessels are equipped with social connectivity facilities. This includes providing reasonable access to ship-to-shore telephone communications and internet access, allowing seafarers to stay in touch with loved ones and remain mentally healthy while at sea.
- Nutritious Meals & Fresh Drinking Water The amendments mandate that shipowners provide free food and drinking water to seafarers, with a specific emphasis on ensuring the meals are nutritious, balanced, and of sufficient quantity and quality. This is an essential step in safeguarding the health and wellbeing of those working aboard.
- Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) The new rules also require that all seafarers are provided with appropriately sized personal protective equipment to reduce the risk of occupational accidents, injuries, and diseases while on board. This adds an extra layer of protection for the crew, who are often working in challenging and sometimes hazardous conditions.
- Seafarer Rights & Compensation In line with the new amendments, seafarers must be informed of their rights concerning recruitment and placement services. Specifically, they are entitled to compensation for any monetary loss incurred due to issues with recruitment or placement.
- Recording and Reporting of Seafarer Deaths Shipowners will also be required to ensure that all seafarer deaths are officially recorded and reported annually to the International Labour Organization (ILO). The collected data will be published, bringing more transparency to the industry.
Why Are These Changes Important?
The 2022 amendments are a direct response to lessons learned during the COVID-19 pandemic, where the world saw how isolated many seafarers became, often unable to leave vessels for long stretches. The aim of these updates is not only to ensure the physical safety of seafarers but also to promote their mental well-being, social connectivity, and overall quality of life during their time at sea.
What Should Shipowners Do Now?
Shipowners must ensure that they comply with the new amendments as soon as possible. The Merchant Shipping (Maritime Labour Convention) (Amendment) Rules, 2025 provide detailed requirements, which can be accessed here.
As these new provisions reflect global standards aimed at enhancing seafarer welfare, it is crucial for shipowners to implement them without delay to avoid any potential penalties or disruptions.
Key Takeaways
With the introduction of the Merchant Shipping (Maritime Labour Convention) (Amendment) Rules, 2025, the Maltese authorities have reinforced their commitment to upholding the highest standards of seafarer welfare. These amendments underscore the importance of addressing the physical, mental, and social needs of seafarers—critical components in ensuring a safer, healthier, and more humane working environment at sea.
For more details, visit the Malta Merchant Shipping Directorate website or reach out to us at SMS Corporate for assistance with compliance.
