Argentine ports likely to face strike action, says ISS

Maritime services provider Inchcape Shipping Services (ISS) has warned of a potential general strike in Argentina on 10 April that could halt operations in ports across the country.

The strike is expected to start at midnight and last for 24 hours. It may cause stoppages in various ports of truck, bus and train drivers, pilot boat masters, linesmen, tug boat operators and stevedores.

In addition to affecting all shipping operations in the port of San Lorenzo-Rosario, the union-backed action is expected to have an impact on transits at Zona comun and pilot boat operations through Rio de la Plata and the Parana River.

ISS Argentina general manager Gabriel Curtarelli said: "During the strike, we expect to see operations at San Lorenzo-Rosario delayed by a day."

"The strike will affect all cargoes destined for the port and ships will be required to remain at anchorage if they have been unable to berth prior to commencement of the strike."

Tug boat operatives and stevedores in the ports of Buenos Aires, Necochea and Bahia Blanca said they will join the strike.

ISS said it will post any news updates on the operations being affected during the course of strike action.