Germany: Port workers in Hamburg on strike until at least Feb. 4

Event

Workers employed by the Hamburg port operator HHLA and affiliated with the Ver.di Hamburg union have launched a warning strike until at least the evening of Feb. 4 as part of a dispute over wages and working conditions. The strike, which began Feb. 2, is currently disrupting container freight operations at Altenwerder and Burchardkai.

Striking workers could also stage protests and pickets outside of port facilities, which could prompt localized disruptions. Residual disruptions are possible for several days after the strike ends as port authorities work to clear any container backlog. Further industrial action is likely in the coming weeks if the dispute is not resolved.

Advice

Allow additional time when routing freight through the port of Hamburg during the strike action. Avoid all demonstrations as a routine precaution and to mitigate possible disruption.