# Port of Tarragona warns of access restrictions amid indefinite metalworkers’ strike

- **Source:** https://pelavox.com/port-tarragona-access-disruptions-metalworkers-strike/
- **Publisher:** pelavox. (The voice of shipping)
- **Author:** Jason Nicholson
- **Published:** 2026-11-10T02:20:00+00:00
- **Updated:** 2026-11-09T12:30:56+00:00
- **Section:** Ports
- **Type:** News
- **Topics:** Metalworkers Strike, Port Disruptions, Port of Tarragona, Spain Logistics, Tarragona

The Port of Tarragona has warned of significant access disruptions following the start of an indefinite strike by metal industry workers in Tarragona, Spain, on Monday, November 9, 2026, with demonstrations affecting road connections and entry to port facilities.

In an official statement, the port authority confirmed that the industrial action was affecting both vehicle and pedestrian access, including access on foot to Marina Port Tarraco. The authority warned that the disruption could make it difficult or impossible to enter certain port facilities, while traffic diversions, congestion and other incidents were expected around the port’s access points.

More than 600 metal industry workers participated in the mobilisation, establishing pickets at port entrances and blocking major roads, including the A-27 motorway and N-340 national road. The demonstrations disrupted traffic between Tarragona and La Canonja, with freight vehicles experiencing delays near the road connections serving the port.

## Port authority confirms access disruptions

The Port of Tarragona urged workers, businesses and other users of its facilities to follow the instructions of police and traffic authorities as the demonstrations continued.

The restrictions affected a major logistics and industrial gateway on Spain’s Mediterranean coast, where road transport provides essential connections between port terminals, nearby industrial facilities and the wider hinterland.

Reports from the area indicated that trucks attempting to reach the port were delayed or unable to proceed through certain access routes. Traffic congestion was also reported near the junction connecting the T-11 and A-27, where vehicles accumulated as the blockades continued.

The disruption extended to industrial facilities in Tarragona’s surrounding chemical and manufacturing complex. BASF reported difficulties with employee shift changes at its local operations and raised concerns over access restrictions affecting its workforce.

Although the port authority confirmed difficulties accessing its facilities, it did not announce a general suspension of maritime operations or provide figures for cargo volumes affected by the strike.

## Workers demand improved employment conditions

The industrial action was organised by the Plataforma del Metall de Tarragona following a prolonged dispute over the sector’s collective bargaining agreement.

The workers’ platform argues that the agreement reached after months of negotiations does not adequately address wage differences, working hours and occupational risks. Its demands include a 35-hour working week, retirement provisions from the age of 60 and improved wage conditions comparable with those available to metal industry workers in Barcelona.

The platform is also seeking additional compensation for hazardous and toxic working environments, particularly for external contractors employed at industrial and refinery facilities.

The mobilisation is taking place independently of the major trade unions UGT and CCOO, which supported the collective agreement criticised by the protesting workers.

Representatives of the platform have indicated that the strike will continue until employers engage in further negotiations over the disputed conditions.

The Port of Tarragona remains exposed to potential further landside disruption while the industrial action continues. The duration of the restrictions and their wider impact on cargo handling, vessel operations and supply chains have not yet been established.

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Cite as: "Port of Tarragona warns of access restrictions amid indefinite metalworkers’ strike", pelavox., 10 November 2026, https://pelavox.com/port-tarragona-access-disruptions-metalworkers-strike/