A strike by lashers, the dockworkers responsible for securing containers on ships, has intensified congestion at the Port of Rotterdam, Europe’s largest maritime gateway. The number of vessels waiting offshore has nearly doubled, reaching about thirteen—up from the usual six or seven ships.
Earlier weather disruptions from Storm Amy initially slowed operations, but the ongoing industrial action is now the primary cause of delays. Each day, lashers normally handle roughly 17,000 import containers on the sea side of the port, meaning even short work stoppages can significantly impact logistics chains.
The dispute centers on wage demands. Labor union representatives are expected to resume talks with employers Matrans and International Lashing Services (ILS) to seek a resolution. Without an agreement, the strike could extend into the weekend, further delaying vessel turnaround times.
Some shipping lines are reportedly considering diverting traffic to Antwerp as a temporary measure. However, that port is also under pressure due to separate industrial protests by harbor pilots, leaving few immediate alternatives for rerouting.
Port operators have warned that the strike is causing serious disruption to cargo flow, urging both sides to find a compromise to prevent escalation.
