Germany’s Widening Strikes Paralyze Kiel Canal and Disrupt Trade

Germany’s Ver.di Nord (United Services Union) has initiated an extensive strike across Northern Germany, leading to the closure of the Kiel Canal and disruptions at the Port of Hamburg. The three-day strike is expected to have lasting consequences on maritime trade in the region.

The Kiel Canal, a crucial passage for short-sea and feeder shipping in the Baltic, was shut down. Authorities instructed vessels to clear the canal before the shutdown, barring new entries for most of Monday to facilitate a smooth closure. A Ver.di spokesperson confirmed that shipping activities would be completely suspended, The strike extends beyond maritime operations, with Verdi also calling on employees from the Waterways and Shipping Office to participate in the walkout to pressure the federal government.

This action is part of an ongoing labor dispute as Ver.di pushes for better wages and working conditions in the public sector. The union demands an 8% pay hike, increased bonuses for shift work, three additional leave days, and a new flexible time-off system. Despite previous negotiations, the union expressed frustration over the lack of an improved contract offer.

The strikes, which started over the weekend, have already affected major airports across Germany, including Hamburg Airport, which was forced to close due to an unannounced strike. The closure of the Kiel Canal, one of the busiest artificial waterways globally, will significantly impact shipping. The 50-nautical-mile canal offers a shortcut between the North Sea and the Baltic, saving vessels up to 18 hours of travel time. With its shutdown, ships must either delay their journey or reroute around Denmark through heavily congested waters.

Industry experts anticipate severe congestion once the canal reopens. According to ship agency GAC Group, major delays should be expected for all west- and eastbound traffic heading towards the Kiel Canal. The period of congestion is unpredictable and depends on the backlog of waiting vessels. Further compounding the disruption, Ver.di is also calling on workers at the Port of Hamburg to join the strike. The port has already warned of significant slowdowns, as approximately one-third of its container traffic relies on the canal. With negotiations looming and the strike expanding, businesses and logistics companies are bracing for prolonged disruptions in Germany’s key trade corridors.