The ADB identify that the number of Tuvaluans employed as seafarers has decreased steadily from about 340 in 2001 to only 205 in 2010; so that of a total pool of 800 qualified seafarers, including those on leave, almost 450 were unemployed. This decline in seafarer employment has reduced remittances from $2.4 million in 2001 to a projected $1.2 million in 2010.
According to the ADB, the number of Tuvaluans working at sea has been declining steadily since around 340 in 2001 to just 205 by 2010; consequently, nearly half of the total pool of 800 qualified sailors, including those on leave, were without work. This decrease in seafarer employment has led to a significant drop in remittances from $2.4 million in 2001 to an estimated $1.2 million in 2010.