January / February 2025 - Work stoppages in French ports: dates and impact
Since the beginning of 2025, French ports have been faced with a series of industrial actions led by the Fédération Nationale des Ports et Docks C.G.T. (FNPD-CGT). These strikes are taking place against a backdrop of protests against pension reform, and are having a direct impact on port operations, goods flow management and logistics organization.
Schedule of work stoppages since the beginning of 2025:
The Fédération Nationale des Ports et Docks C.G.T. (FNPD-CGT) has organized nationwide strikes lasting four hours a day in all French ports, from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, on the following dates: January 9, 13, 15, 17, 21, 23, 27, 29 and 31.
A 48-hour strike has also been announced for January 30 and 31, which could lead to further disruption and delays to all port operations. In addition, a ban on overtime will be in place throughout January.
For February, four-hour work stoppages are scheduled for February 4, 6, 10, 12, 14, 18, 20, 24, 26 and 28.
Consequences for importers and exporters:
Disruptions to port services and shipping are to be expected, with a possible impact on ports in French overseas territories.
These industrial actions are likely to result in:
- Congestion of port terminals.
- Longer transit times, with a domino effect on deliveries and the supply chain.
- Disruption to road infrastructure around French ports, due to heightened security measures at protest sites.
It is important to note that the Port of Dunkirk is not affected by these strikes and continues to operate normally, ensuring uninterrupted cargo handling.
Potential Additional Costs Due to Port Strikes:
Our teams are actively working to minimize the impact of these disruptions on your operations. However, please note that any unexpected additional charges related to demurrage, detention, port storage, and trucking may arise. These unforeseen costs result from delays in container handling, extended transit times, and congestion at terminals.
Our alternative solutions:
To reduce the impact of these strikes on transport flows, we propose alternative solutions, including the use of substitute ports such as Antwerp and Rotterdam in the north, or Barcelona in the south.
However, these options are subject to prior review and evaluation, as these ports are also experiencing heavy congestion due to the redirection of maritime traffic.
Ongoing discussions:
Lastly, it is important to remember that the timetable for industrial action remains provisional, subject to change as a result of discussions between the Docker's Union (Fédération Nationale des Ports & Docks C.G.T) and the French Government. Discussions are currently underway between the Docker’s Union and the French Government, with the possibility of lifting strike notices for some of the announced February dates.
We are closely monitoring the situation and remain available to assist you with any questions or specific needs.
Need assistance?
Our teams are dedicated to finding solutions to minimise the impact of these disruptions on your operations. Our customer service team is ready to assist you by email or phone.
