Port of Montevideo faces labor strikes and legal disputes

The Port of Montevideo is facing ongoing instability due to a combination of long-standing legal disputes and recent labor conflicts. The container terminal, Terminal Cuenca del Plata (TCP), remains a central hub for South American maritime business despite these challenges.

Labor tensions have escalated as the Sindicato Único Portuario y Ramas Afines (Supra) presented a counterproposal to management to resolve a prolonged collective bargaining dispute. The union is seeking a shorter agreement, not exceeding two years, and specific commitments regarding wages. While the union suggested a mechanism for ‘union guards’ to maintain some operations, TCP management has questioned the sufficiency of such measures and warned of significant damages resulting from the indefinite strike.

Beyond labor issues, the port has a history of legal friction. Katoen Natie, which owns 80% of TCP, has been involved in disputes with the Uruguayan state and other operators like Montecon regarding competition rules and the exclusive use of port equipment and public spaces. These tensions include disagreements over whether certain docking activities should be subject to public bidding processes.