Port congestion in Gabon – West Central Africa.
We have received notification from our partners in Gabon that severe port congestion is currently being experienced effecting customers moving to Gabon and moving from Gabon.
Gabon is in west central Africa and shares borders with Equatorial Guinea to the northwest, Cameroon to the north, and with the Republic of the Congo curving around the east and south. Its coast line is the Gulf of Guinea, an arm of the Atlantic Ocean is to the west
Ships at the port of Libreville (also the Capital city of Gabon), are currently unable to unload their cargo due to striking port workers and this has led to the complete paralysis of the port.
The reason for the strike is that port employees are demanding higher wages.
The strike will severely disrupt shipments into and out from Gabon and specifically customers moving to Libreville. Many industries have been effected by the port congestion.
The strike may also spread to the port of Port Gentil.
Currently there is no advice to the period of time the workers will continue to strike. Needless to advise, when they do return it will take some considerable time to clear the backlog and bring clearance times back to normal.
To avoid possible additional charges for rent / demurrage Abels will hold shipments in its warehouse before shipping to Gabon. Should you be planning on moving to Gabon and wish to discuss the process further please call your Abels Customer Liaison Manager or dial the head office main line +44 1842 816600 or email shipping@abels.co.uk