Joseph Bonney, Senior Editor | Jun 27, 2012 10:46AM EDT
Strikes by Brazilian customs officers are disrupting ports and slowing clearance of imports, maritime services provider Inchcape Shipping Services reports.
Industrial actions of varying lengths and degrees have affected operations in most major Brazilian ports, including Santos, Paranagua, Salvador, Manaus, Santarem, Santana and Itacoatiara. The customs officers are demanding better salaries and working conditions.
Customs officers had originally advised shipping agents that they would stop work for two days a week and work at a minimal level on the remaining days until an agreement is reached, Inchcape said.
Inchcape said customs union leaders have warned that if the negotiations over the next few days are unsuccessful, they will start an undefined strike that will affect the whole country, including ports, airports and bonded warehouses.
Contact Joseph Bonney at jbonney@joc.com. Follow him on Twitter @josephbonney.
