Port of Santos again records partial strike of dockers against changes in the Ports Law

O Port of Santos returned to the stage of mobilization this week with a new protest promoted by dockers in defense of exclusivity in hiring casual port labor. The movement, led by Dockworkers Union of Santos, São Vicente, Guarujá and Cubatão (Sindestiva)reinforces the category’s reaction to the changes expected in the Bill 733/2025currently being processed in the National Congress.

According to the category, the proposal threatens one of the main historical pillars of port work: exclusive hiring via Labor Management Body (OGMO). The workers’ concern is that flexibility opens up space for direct hiring and hiring by outsourced companies, which, in the union’s assessment, could result in layoffs, precarious working conditions and loss of acquired rights.

The strike occurred partially, respecting the determination of the Regional Labor Court of the 2nd Region (TRT-2)which authorized the strike with the maintenance of 50% of operational activities at the Santos pier. The measure seeks to balance the category’s constitutional right to demonstrate with the continuity of a service considered essential for national logistics.

The protest is part of a series of weekly mobilizations announced by the union, with events scheduled for Wednesdays, until the final report of the bill is defined. The category also intends to increase pressure on political leaders and the Federal Government to take a position on the issue.

Behind the scenes in the port sector, the discussion has generated strong repercussions. Operators defend greater flexibility in hiring, while workers argue that the change could impact operational security and the historical organization of the workforce in the largest port in Latin America.

The new demonstration reignites the debate about the future of port work in the country and reinforces the tense environment surrounding the sector’s new legal framework.

Question on air (editorial tone):
Will the discussion about exclusivity in contracting be treated solely as a labor issue or also as a strategic issue for the efficiency and safety of operations at the Port of Santos?