On Tuesday, 3 October, Unión Portuaria, a stevedore union representing more than 8,000 workers at 25 Chilean ports, announced a 48-hour strike from Wednesday, 4 October, 8:00 a.m. until Friday, 6 October, 7:59 a.m.

According to an advisory from Hapag-Lloyd, the labour action will affect the ports of Iquique, Antofagasta, both terminals at San Antonio, San Vincente, Colonel and Lirquén.

Although not all ports have confirmed their participation, Hapag-Lloyd expects the strike will occur at most ports.

Nevertheless, normal operations are expected at Arica, Puerto Angamos and Valparaíso.

Local news reports that the union is seeking an early retirement system for its members, which allows them to withdraw pension funds early before physical conditions put them at risk of injury.

“Today it is imperative to have an early retirement system by law since the modernity of ports has made pathologies and occupational diseases flourish that do not discriminate against age or sex,” said the union.

In addition, the union's demands include reviewing vacation policies, wages, access to health services and recognition of occupational diseases.

Despite several meetings with the Chilean government, the union said there had been no progress in addressing their concerns.