Transnet Strike | 30,000 jobs at risk in berry industry

CAPE TOWN - Producers in the berry industry say each day ports do not operate, puts 30,000 jobs at risk.

Transnet has declared a force majeure across its ports after workers embarked on a strike earlier this week.

It’s been an uphill battle for the agricultural sector amid rising input costs, like fuel and fertiliser prices, over the last few years.

For those in the berry industry, a strike by thousands of Transnet workers – at the peak of export season – could be the straw that breaks the camel’s back.

READ: Transnet workers down tools

BerriesZA says this is not the first-time issues at ports have affected the sector.

Government has been called on to urgently intervene.

UNTU and Satawu-affiliated workers are demanding between 12 and 13.5 percent wage increases, while Transnet is digging in its heels with an offer of between 3 and 4 percent.

Transnet says it also wants to find an amicable solution.

The SOE says salaries currently make up 66 percent of its total operating costs, which is not sustainable.

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