More Than 50 European Ports Prepare for Joint Strike on October 30
The Ports in Action alliance has called for a coordinated strike in more than 50 ports across 10 countries on October 30, with expectations of vessel schedule delays ranging from three to five days.
More than 50 ports in 10 European countries are preparing for a coordinated strike on October 30, called by the Ports in Action union network, with the participation of 11 labor unions, according to a report by the AMZ123 platform.
The French union CGT announced a 24-hour national strike on the same day, while the Italian union USB intends to take action in at least eight major ports, including Genoa, Trieste, and Livorno. Dockworkers at the Greek port of Piraeus also voted to join the strike.
Industry specialists believe a one-day stoppage could delay vessel schedules by three to five days, incurring additional costs related to demurrage fees and rerouting charges. They advised shippers and freight forwarders to establish contingency plans ahead of the strike date.
This action comes at a time when global supply chains face growing pressure due to Red Sea attacks and tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, which could amplify the strike's impact beyond a single day of port disruption.
What Do These Terms Mean?
Demurrage Fees: Charges imposed by ports or shipping lines for delays in loading or unloading containers beyond the agreed timeframe.
Rerouting Charges: Additional costs incurred by shipments when changing ports or routes due to journey disruptions.
Coordinated Strike: A simultaneous work stoppage organized by unions across multiple locations with a common objective.
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