Gothenburg licks its throughput wounds

During the first six months of the year the number of containers shipped fell by 22%, the biggest decrease in the history of the port meaning that handling figures are now at a level not seen since 2001.

“The consequences for Swedish trade are immense, as several services to key markets have been withdrawn, including direct services that are vital to both imports and exports,” said Magnus Kårestedt, chief executive, Gothenburg Port Authority.

“A great deal of freight has been shifted from sea to road, investments are failing to materialise, and jobs have disappeared.”

Mr Kårestedt said that the volume figures for the first six months of the year clearly show how the two-year dispute between the trade union and the container terminal APM Terminals Gothenburg, is impacting negatively on container trade.

The dispute between the operator, APMT, and section 4 of the Swedish Dockworkers’ Union began back in May 2016.

It has continued despite the fact that APMT has signed and is a party to the industry’s collective agreement. The situation has led the government to take action and set up an enquiry to review labour market rules, but this takes time.

Mr Kårestedt said that in the interim the port needs an immediate local solution that will allow the port to regain its credibility.