Italian port workers will hold a nationwide 24-hour strike on Wednesday, May 7, 2026. The strike is initiated by USB Lavoro Privato, with UGL Mare e Porti and ORSA Porti joining, and will cover all major Italian ports.
Scope of influence
The strike will take place from 00:00 to 23:59 on May 7th, affecting container, passenger ship, and roll-on/roll-off ship operations at the following ports:
- Genoa
- Trieste
- Livorno
- Sardinian ports
- Piers in Sicily
Port authorities will still be required to provide minimum services, including emergency pilotage. However, delays are expected for ferry and roll-on/roll-off (Ro-Ro) services.
Impact on logistics
European shipments transiting through Italy may experience delays of 1-2 days. Goods transported by roll-on/roll-off (Ro-Ro) vessels are more significantly affected.
suggestion:
- For shipments destined for or transiting through Italy, inform customers in advance of potential delays.
- Pay attention to the potential airline strike on May 11. If two strikes occur consecutively, the impact will be cumulative.
Reasons for the strike
The union is protesting "perennial labor shortages" and delays in renewing the collective bargaining agreement (which expires in December 2024). Employers argue that investments in automation and green ports have altered skill requirements, and that wage negotiations should be linked to productivity.
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