Crew members on multiple vessels operated by Icelandic shipping company Eimskip have initiated an indefinite strike. This industrial action began on Monday, May 25, following the breakdown of wage negotiations between Eimskip and the Icelandic Seamen’s Union (SÍ).
The strike involves bosuns and able seamen, key personnel for vessel operations. The union called for the strike after prolonged discussions regarding new wage agreements did not yield a resolution, leading to an impasse.
For freight forwarders and shippers utilizing Eimskip's services, this strike is likely to cause significant disruptions. Potential impacts include delayed vessel departures and arrivals, altered shipping schedules, and reduced overall capacity. Forwarders should anticipate possible rollovers of cargo and consider alternative routing or carriers to mitigate supply chain interruptions. Communication with Eimskip regarding specific vessel statuses and contingency plans will be crucial for managing client expectations and maintaining shipment integrity.
