3F is Denmark's largest trade union - with approximately 251,819 (January 2025) skilled and unskilled members

Danish Fisheries Sector and 3F Union Reach Landmark Labor Agreement 

DENMARK
Thursday, March 27, 2025, 06:00 (GMT + 9)

Employees on Danish fishing vessels are set to benefit from enhanced working conditions following a new three-year collective agreement between the Danish Fisheries Producer Organisation (DFPO), the Danish Pelagic Producers' Organisation (DPPO), and the trade union 3F.

Amid ongoing national discussions about the future of the fishing industry, these key organizations have secured an agreement that significantly improves conditions for Danish fisheries workers.

Effective March 1, 2025, the agreement increases the minimum hourly wage by approximately USD 0.73. Pension contributions will rise by approximately USD 3.38 per day from May 1, 2025. Notably, apprentice salaries from the North Sea College fishing school, as well as adult apprentices, will see substantial increases.

The agreement also establishes a framework for initiatives aimed at enhancing the working environment and promoting well-being on vessels.

Furthermore, the duration of sick pay entitlement has been extended from eight to ten weeks. A provision for employees to share in CO2 tax compensation has also been included.

"Danish fishing leads the world in social sustainability," stated Svend-Erik Andersen, Chairman of the Danish Fisheries Association. "This agreement reaffirms our commitment, and I am pleased that we have once again engaged in constructive negotiations with 3F. We have jointly agreed to improve conditions for fishing industry employees, while respecting the traditional wage system based on turnover shares."

"We offer Denmark's most attractive apprenticeship training in the fishing industry, and this agreement further enhances it," said Jens Schneider Rasmussen, Chairman of the Danish Pelagic Producers' Organisation. "Attracting talented young individuals to the sector is crucial, requiring us to adapt to modern standards. I am particularly satisfied with the agreement's focus on well-being, safety, and training."

"We are pleased with the negotiation outcomes," said Karsten Kristensen, Vice-Chairman and Negotiating Secretary for Dockers, Fishermen, and Seamen at 3F Transport. "Beyond tangible improvements like overtime pay, apprentice wages, sick pay, and pensions, we have secured employee participation in the CO2 tax compensation scheme. We have also prioritized well-being, and we appreciate the employers' commitment to addressing onboard well-being as a collaborative effort."

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