Transport workers announced an indefinite strike due to fees at the Limassol port and disputes over containers

On Monday morning, members of the Pan-Cyprian Association of Transport Operators (PSMA) began an indefinite strike, despite recent meetings with the ministries of labour and transport, as well as with Eurogate, the company managing the Limassol port.

The decision was made after a night meeting, where the results of previous consultations were evaluated. According to them, issues with the Ministry of Transport remain unresolved, especially regarding container height and the registration of extendable skeletal semi-trailers.

"Zero reaction from the management company" Organizational secretary of PO VEK Kyriakos Moustakas told reporters that the strike was caused by complete disregard from the port company. "We raised issues that cost the company nothing, but would greatly simplify our work and remove problems. Unfortunately, no sensitivity at all," he noted.

He added that they contacted the ministries, which offered options, but without guarantees of implementation. "We are not sure that the proposals will be carried out. We hope they will reconsider and resume dialogue."

Main reasons for the strike - Moustakas listed the key disagreements:

• Chronographs: If the labour ministry’s proposals are implemented, the problem will be solved.
• Container height and lack of registration of extendable trailers: Main topics in negotiations with the transport ministry.
• Container detention fees: The main dispute with Eurogate — the day the ship arrives. The company counts it as a full charging day, even if docking happens after noon. "We ask not to count the arrival day: by the time procedures are completed and unloading begins, the day is gone," Moustakas explained.
• Non-release of containers without transporter’s fault: Transporters are often delayed on exit despite having all customs documents, due to shipowners' or agents' debts. "Transporters are forced to pay for someone else's liabilities, losing time and workday. This is unacceptable."

No response to the meeting request — risk of congestion at the port. Transport workers tried to schedule a new meeting with the company but failed. Moustakas warned: if the strike continues, the port will fill up — around ten ship arrivals are expected in the coming days. "If space runs out, there will be nowhere to place containers. They may divert ships to other ports. This affects their business too."