The IBF was set up as a process in which maritime employers, represented by the Joint Negotiating Group (JNG), and seafarers unions, represented by the International Transport-Workers’ Federation (ITF) could negotiate over the wages and conditions of employment of seafarers serving on ships to which ITF Special Agreements apply.

The JNG consists of IMEC, the International Mariners Management Association of Japan (IMMAJ), the Korean Shipowners Association (KSA) and the Taiwanese company Evergreen and allows for the coordination of the views of employers from across the world.

IMEC also coordinates the application of IBF agreements on behalf of its members through local negotiations.