South Africa: Transnet workers' strike continues Oct. 17; nationwide cargo transport disruptions ongoing /update 3

Event

A Transnet workers' nationwide strike is ongoing Oct. 17. Striking workers rejected the latest proposed 6 percent salary increase from the Commission for Conciliation, Mediation and Arbitration (CCMA) in Johannesburg, Oct. 16. Unions are demanding increases between 12 and 13.5 percent, and are unlikely to agree to any offer inferior to that of the 7.6 percent inflation rate. The strike has impacted cargo transport in various sectors, including mining and agriculture. Additionally, related protests have recently been held near Transnet ports in Cape Town, Saldanha, and Durban.

Strike action will likely continue in the coming days. Further demonstrations by strike workers near Transnet sites are likely. Police are likely to close road routes near protest sites. Clashes could occur. Delays in deliveries of cargo are likely to persist. Backlogs of ships and cargo trucks near key ports are likely to persist.

Context

South African Transport and Allied Workers Union (SATAWU) joined the action on Oct. 10. Transnet declared "force majeure" as the United National Transport Union (UNTU) affiliated workers began striking Oct. 6. Transnet is a majority state-owned entity that manages freight rail transport, ports, and pipelines.

Advice

Plan for freight and transport delays. Reconfirm business appointments at Transnet offices and facilities. Avoid all protests.