Eimskip and Seafarers’ Union of Iceland reach agreement

The Confederation of Icelandic Enterprise (SA), acting on behalf of Eimskip, and the Seafarers’ Union of Iceland (SÍ) have reached an agreement covering harbour employees at Sundahöfn port. The deal averts a strike that SÍ had scheduled to begin on May 26, 2026, which has now been withdrawn.

Wage negotiations deferred

Under the agreement, collective wage negotiations will be deferred until October 31, 2026. During this period, a competency analysis of port operations will take place. A strike embargo will apply for the full duration.

New pay system in development

Work has already begun on a formal competency-based pay system for harbour employees. The system will use an objective job evaluation framework. Employee competence, skills and responsibilities will form the basis for wage setting and salary progression.

The Education and Training Service Centre (Fræðslumiðstöð atvinnulífsins) will classify roles into competency levels based on the Icelandic Qualifications Framework. Job classification is expected to be complete by October 25, 2026.

Crew negotiations ongoing

Separate negotiations covering bosuns and able seamen on Eimskip’s own vessels have not yet produced an agreement. Those talks remain ongoing.

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