Congestion at the Port of Rotterdam, the largest in the European Union, is causing serious logistical and legal challenges for Latin American exporters. Operations have experienced significant disruptions since February 9, 2025, due to a strike at the Hutchinson Port Delta II terminal over Collective Bargaining Agreement disputes. Although operations resumed the following day, the global logistics chain continues to feel the consequences.
On February 11, the terminal had to close twice because of container congestion. Maersk, one of the main shipping lines operating at the terminal, confirmed that the hourly throughput capacity was reduced indefinitely. Despite full operations resuming on March 12, waiting times remain long. Ships are averaging a seven-day wait to be serviced, which matches the previous all-time high.
Prolonged delays have prompted exporters from Chile, Peru, and Colombia to activate maritime insurance and consider legal actions to mitigate losses. "Those who do not have cargo insurance or don't have enough coverage must handle claims strategically," said Miguel Segovia, lawyer and head of Araya & Cía's Transport and Insurance area.
Disagreements over severance pay, financial guarantees, and process automation sparked the strike. A tentative agreement was reached in March; however, its ratification still relies on a pending union vote, creating uncertainty in operations.
The rise in cargo volume has worsened the strike's impact. In 2024, the Port of Rotterdam handled 133.4 million tons, a 2.5% increase from last year, and 13.8 million TEUs (+2.8%). This growth has made the port more vulnerable to disruptions like those in February.
To address this situation, experts advise exporters to inform insurers, notify carriers, and coordinate cargo inspections at their destination to document possible damages. These actions are essential for facilitating claims and safeguarding business interests in a climate of high logistical volatility.
Source: www.araya.cl