Guadeloupe authorities clear Jarry industrial zone blockades

French authorities and gendarmes moved to clear blockades in the Jarry industrial zone of Baie-Mahault, Guadeloupe, on October 14, 2026. The operation targeted barricades erected by the “Nou Las Palé” collective, which used heavy machinery and debris to obstruct major transport routes. Prefect Thierry Devimeux oversaw the clearing, stating the objective was to provide “oxygen to the economy” and prevent further disruption. He noted that the materials used in the blockades included potentially hazardous asbestos-containing waste.

The blockades have caused a rift within the local business community. While the underlying grievances regarding payment delays for construction companies are recognized, the organization Guadeloupe Économique issued a statement condemning the Jarry blockades as “inacceptable et meurtrier” (unacceptable and murderous). The group argued that such methods penalize thousands of other businesses, employees, and families.

The situation highlights a tension between different economic actors, as José Gaddarkhan, president of the Fédération du BTP de Guadeloupe, is a member of both the federation and the Nou Las Palé collective. While the federation's claims regarding industry cash flow are acknowledged, the methods of the collective have faced public condemnation from regional economic organizations.