The dockworkers' protest reignited in early 2025, spearheaded by the Fnpd-Cgt union, opposing the pension reform as part of a broader national mobilisation involving other sectors. The reform includes raising the retirement age and aims to improve working conditions. The union is also demanding protective measures for port workers handling asbestos. The initial 48-hour strike took place across all ports on 30 and 31 January, with additional actions scheduled for February, including intermittent four-hour strikes, suspension of overtime, and cancellation of special shifts.
The February actions are set for the 4th, 6th, 10th, 12th, 14th, 18th, 20th, 24th, 26th, and 28th. The first two days of strikes resulted in delays in cargo shipments and vehicle congestion at the terminals. Container traffic in Marseille and Le Havre was particularly affected, with knock-on effects on rail forwarding. Should the protests continue, cargo ships may be diverted to other European ports such as Antwerp, Rotterdam, or Barcelona. The logistics business association Tlf and the freight forwarders’ group Autf have voiced concerns about the economic repercussions of the protest.