Multiple European countries are expected to experience large-scale strikes this week, bringing significant disruptions to port operations, rail transport, and national logistics networks. The most notable actions will take place in Italy on December 12 and Portugal on December 11, both involving nationwide general strikes that could severely impact freight movement across Europe.
Logistics providers have already issued warnings that delivery delays, port congestion, and reduced trucking availability should be anticipated throughout the week.
Italy: Nationwide General Strike on December 12
Italy will hold a national general strike on December 12, organized by the country’s largest labor union, CGIL, in protest over budget-related issues.
The strike will last 24 hours and is expected to cause major disruptions across key transport sectors.
Expected Impacts
Four major ports, including Genoa and Trieste, will suspend operations for an entire day.
Railway services are expected to halt for 24 hours.
Freight operations may experience delays, and carriers may face reduced vehicle availability.
Logistics companies operating in and through Italy should be prepared for schedule changes, last-minute cancellations, and extended gate-in/gate-out waiting times.
Other Planned Strikes in December (Local Media Reports)
December 9 (Tuesday): Public transport strike in Rome
December 9–11 (Tuesday–Thursday): Nationwide ferry strike
December 12 (Friday): Nationwide general strike
December 17 (Wednesday): Nationwide aviation strike
December 22–24 (Monday–Wednesday): Nationwide freight logistics strike
These actions collectively signal a month of heightened instability across Italy’s transport and logistics sectors.
Portugal: First Nationwide General Strike in 12 Years
Portugal will experience a nationwide strike on December 11, organized jointly by the country’s two largest union federations, CGTP and UGT.
This marks Portugal’s first general strike in 12 years, launched in response to proposed government reforms to national labor laws.
Expected Impacts
The entire transportation network may be severely disrupted or brought to a standstill, including public transit, road transport, and port operations.
Additional targeted strike actions (“Day-After Paralysis”) have been proposed for December 12, which could extend the disruption.
Analysts estimate that nearly half of Portugal’s workforce may participate, potentially causing system-wide delays and widespread logistical challenges across the country.
Implications for Global Supply Chains
For companies shipping to or transiting through Europe, especially Italy and Portugal, the following impacts should be anticipated:
Delayed vessel clearance and longer port turnaround times
Uncertain ETDs/ETAs for both sea and inland transportation
Reduced trucking availability
Congestion at major gateways
Temporary suspension of ferry, rail, and aviation operations
Shippers are advised to maintain close communication with logistics partners, explore rerouting options where possible, and plan for extended lead times during this period.
