An oilseed workers’ strike in Argentina is entering its seventh day as wage negotiations remain stalled, significantly impacting shipments from one of the world’s leading grain exporters. Martin Morales, union secretary for the San Lorenzo Department Oilseed Workers and Employees Union (SOEA), confirmed that the strike would continue, stating, “Tomorrow we will evaluate again whether or not to continue.”
The strike, initiated by two industrial unions, aims to ensure that salaries keep pace with the country’s high inflation. Morales noted that the companies involved have not yet engaged in negotiations with the unions.
The strike has primarily affected terminals north of Rosario along the Paraná River, which are critical for Argentina’s agricultural and agro-industrial exports, accounting for over 80% of the country’s shipments. As a result, at least three dozen ships remain delayed near Rosario, a key agro-export hub.
In June, the federal government had previously intervened by forcing SOEA to suspend a strike through mandatory reconciliation talks, pushing both parties back to the negotiating table.
Argentina is a major producer of grains and a top exporter of soybean oil and soybean meal, with the economy heavily reliant on the foreign-exchange revenue generated from these exports. The government is striving to bolster its scarce central bank reserves amid ongoing economic challenges.