Kingston Freeport Terminal resumes operations after dockworker strike

Operations have resumed at the Kingston Freeport Terminal Limited (KFTL) in Jamaica following an industrial action involving over 1,000 dockworkers. The company described the stoppage as an “illegal” action that halted loading and unloading activities, threatening regional supply chains and the movement of perishable goods.

The dispute was primarily driven by a mandate from workers to transition their collective bargaining representation from the Trade Union Congress (TUC) to the Port Supervisors Union (PSU). Workers also cited long-standing grievances regarding stagnant pay and difficult working conditions.

Following a meeting facilitated by the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, KFTL announced it would extend operating hours to minimize the impact of the disruption on customers and facilitate the timely processing of cargo.