ZDS argues the offer is competitive within the industry and warns that warning strikes could disrupt port reliability and supply chains.

The situation remains in active negotiations, with the next round awaiting scheduling decisions.

The ongoing tariff dispute at German seaports centers on wage increases, with Verdi deeming the employers’ latest offer insufficient after surveying more than 6,100 workers.

The first negotiation round began in July in Bremen, where Verdi’s lead negotiator, Sylvi Krisch, urged a firm signal to employers and a third round is anticipated.

A demonstration is planned for Tuesday on HHLA’s Burchardkai site, with previous warning strikes contributing to significant vessel traffic slowdowns four years ago.

The employer side, via ZDS, proposed a 5.1% wage increase over 19 months, plus a 300-euro rise in vacation pay and a 460-euro bonus for high-volume container operations.

Verdi opposes the 19-month duration and the monthly earnings structure, arguing for shorter terms and annualized vacation pay instead.

ZDS contends the union’s stance lacks balance and insists the package provides real wage gains in the current economic climate.

ZDS’s managing director warned that strikes could harm imports and exports amid strained global supply chains.

Verdi has called 24-hour warning strikes at six German seaports, including Hamburg, Bremerhaven, Bremen, Wilhelmshaven, Emden, and Brake, beginning Monday evening.

The affected ports include Hamburg and other major terminals, with protests targeting container facilities such as HHLA, Eurogate, and the Gesamthafenbetriebs-Gesellschaft.

The conflict centers on wages and contract length, used as leverage to push for a more favorable offer from the employers.