Port Strikes in Chile
According to Reuters, nine ports are affected by the stevedore port strikes in Chile, which originated at the Northern Port of Angamos and spurred additional strikes down the coast of Chile. The originating port, the Port of Angamos has ended their strike, with workers returning to work. However, it takes several days after a strike for a port to resume normal operations.
Local reports indicate the following ports are affected by strikes: San Antonio, Iquique, Antofagasta, Mejillones Chanaral, Huasco, Coronel, Schwager, San Vincente, Muelle CAP, Talcahuano, and Lirquen.
Strikes of this nature have the potential to be very detrimental to the Chilean economy, one that is dependent on commodities and exports, especially as they are heading into their fruit export season.
**Earlier**
According to CCNI, a Chilean shipping company, the stevedores at the Port of Angamos have enacted a strike in an effort to improve labor conditions, taking effect December 23, 2013. This has also spurred stevedore strikes at the Ports of Iquique and Antofagasta and as a result, these ports are not operating at optimum capacity. Also, the stevedores at the Port of San Antonio declared a strike on January 3rd. However, the strike at the Port of San Antonio is not believed to be connected to the strikes at the northern ports.
As a result of the stevedore strikes, importers and exporters with shipments transiting through the Chilean ports should expect and plan for delays. The Port of Valparaiso is operating normally – however, importers and exporters should be aware of a potential strike at that port as well.
It is unclear as to when the strikes will end. We will continue to monitor the port strikes in Chile and keep you up-to-date with the latest information. Upcoming shipments to and from Chile should be routed using other Chilean ports to avoid or minimize delays. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to us.
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