The Portuguese Association of Shipping Agents (Agepor) has expressed deep concern over the labor dispute involving the ministries of Finance and Infrastructure and the National Union of Administrative Workers of Port Administrations (SNTAP). This ongoing conflict began in October and is scheduled to continue until December 13, triggered by what the union describes as the Finance Ministry’s repeated and inexplicable stance, which has hindered the fulfillment of an agreement made on December 18, 2024, with all Port Administrations.
Industry representatives warn that the prolonged disruption, which has already caused a recent strike and a new shutdown, is having disastrous effects on the economy and the reputation of Portuguese ports.
To date, numerous cargo and especially passenger ship calls have been canceled, severely affecting port operations and the nation’s connectivity to global markets.
The document highlights that major global shipping lines, vital to Portugal’s international trade connections, are rerouting vessels to avoid national ports. There is a fear that essential services might not return, exacerbating current losses and threatening the viability of the sector and the national economy.
Reports from various shipping agents suggest that direct losses in the sector have already surpassed five million euros, with potential for further escalation with each additional day of the shutdown.
Stakeholders are urging the Prime Minister to urgently and decisively intervene to foster dialogue and find a swift and lasting resolution to the conflict.
They stress that only by doing so can the national interest be safeguarded, protecting thousands of jobs directly and indirectly dependent on port activities and ensuring Portugal’s competitiveness in the international maritime landscape.
The letter is endorsed by Agepor, the port communities of Aveiro, Figueira da Foz, Leixões, Lisbon, Setúbal, Sines, and Viana do Castelo, as well as the Association of Shipowners of the Merchant Marine and Commerce (AAMC), the Business Association of Viana do Castelo (AEDVC), the Portuguese Freight Forwarders Association (APAT), the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Viana do Castelo, the Portuguese Shippers Council (CPC), TCGL – General Cargo and Bulk Terminal of Leixões S.A., and Yilport.
