Port strikes halt shipments of copper, fruit, hurting industries in export-dependent Chile

Published January 13, 2015

Port strikes are blocking exports of copper, fruit and wood pulp in Chile.

The stoppage in the world's top copper producing nation began in the northern port of Angamos more than two weeks ago, when workers began demanding a 30-minute lunch break.

Dock workers in other ports have joined in strikes, causing losses for the mining, timber and fruit industries in export-dependent Chile.

Mining Minister Hernan de Solminihac says Thursday the ports affected are used to transport 60 percent of all copper shipments.

State-owned mining company Codelco says it has lost more than $500 million since the strike began

Thousands of workers have also been left idle as fruit exporters are threatening to suspend the harvest.

URL

https://www.foxnews.com/world/port-strikes-halt-shipments-of-copper-fruit-hurting-industries-in-export-dependent-chile