Dockworkers at India’s 12 largest ports plan to strike indefinitely starting August 28. The decision for a nationwide strike follows seven rounds of unsuccessful negotiations. A joint statement released by the six labor organizations representing dockworkers said port labor contracts had expired in December 2021.

The unions have formally notified the port authorities and government of their intent to strike. The strike could significantly disrupt India’s growing global export trade and manufacturing sector. The government is actively investing in port expansion and attracting more container services. In 2024, cargo volume has increased by over 4%, with container traffic up nearly 10%.

Source: Maritime Executive