Sep 26th, 2022
3 mins
On Friday, the BFFF attended a webinar delivered by our colleagues at Unsworth, well known for their global freight and supply chain expertise.
Due to the imminent (28th September) threat of strike action at French BIPs (Border Inspection Posts). Unsworth have very kindly provided us with a copy of the presentation slides to share with those BFFF members who may have missed the event. You can find these here
In summary, a pre-notification of the intention to strike was issued by the Trade Union SIVEP to the French Ministry of Agriculture.
The French Ministry of Agriculture have “listened” and “heard” the claims made by SIVEP agents and negotiations have started. However, the deadline to avert the strike is 27th September 2022 23h59.
IF the SIVEP strike goes ahead on 28th September, Unsworth believe that the reality is that very few SIVEP agents will strike. But that those who do strike will predominately be at Boulogne, as the main union membership and main focus. Boulogne S/Mer is the BIP for Fishery products/seafood.
Calais will remain an option, and in fact is the best option with its ‘smart border’ – the SIVEP Calais Port will set up an “on-call” team to ensure a minimum of controls for perishable goods. There will be delays. However, goods will still go through.
Other options are available however should the situation change, such as Zeebrugge. You will find information about this along with other BCPs in the Unsworth slides.
If you haven’t already done so, it is also worthwhile following Unsworth and their Port Users Forum on LinkedIn.
