Interlink threatens service suspension, MSAF rejects claim of inaction

Another inter-island shipping operator has threatened to suspend services, joining Goundar Shipping Limited in raising concerns over maritime regulation, crew shortages and the treatment of seafarers.

Interlink Shipping Services warned this week that unresolved safety issues, regulatory delays and a shortage of qualified crew had pushed the industry to what it described as a breaking point, raising the prospect of disruptions to essential maritime services.

The warning follows similar concerns raised by Goundar Shipping Limited (GSL), which has also threatened to suspend operations unless long-standing issues affecting seafarers and the maritime industry are addressed.

In a public statement, Interlink claimed the shortage of qualified officers had reached crisis levels and was affecting vessel safety and operational reliability.

“The industry urgently requires approval for the recruitment of higher-class international seafarers. Fiji’s current pool of qualified crew is insufficient, and the shortage of experienced officers with advanced certifications has reached crisis levels.”

The company also criticised delays in approvals and administrative processes, saying they were affecting operators' ability to provide reliable services.

“Simple approvals and administrative processes are taking months — sometimes years — to finalize. Shipowners are left with their hands tied, forced to operate under unsafe and uncertain conditions while trying to serve the public faithfully.”

Interlink further alleged that recent maritime incidents involving vessel groundings had highlighted wider industry concerns.

“Recent vessel groundings and onboard incidents involving underqualified crews have gone unreported to the public. Captains are being suspended, yet no systemic corrective measures have been introduced.”

The company warned it may have “no choice but to suspend services” if urgent action was not taken.

MSAF responds

The Maritime Safety Authority of Fiji (MSAF) rejected claims that industry concerns had been ignored, saying the issues raised by Interlink had been discussed extensively with operators and stakeholders.

“The matters referred to in the statement are not new. MSAF has met with Interlink Shipping Ltd and other stakeholders on a number of occasions and has continued to engage on issues relating to crewing, certification requirements and workforce availability within the maritime sector.”

The authority said requests to recruit foreign seafarers must comply with legal, certification, immigration and regulatory requirements.

“Decisions affecting maritime safety, certification and crewing standards cannot be made outside of the established process.”

MSAF also defended local seafarers, saying claims linking incidents to their competency were serious and should be supported by evidence.

“Fiji's seafarers continue to serve the industry and maritime communities throughout the country, often under challenging conditions, and their contribution should not be discounted.”

The authority said it remained committed to working with shipping operators while ensuring safety standards and regulatory processes were maintained.