The Federation of Tourism Companies of Chile (Fedetur) issued an urgent call for the parties involved in the port worker mobilization, taking place in Valparaíso, to reach agreements, allowing for the normal operation of the port and the reception of passengers, just before the start of the 2025 – 2026 cruise season at the maritime facility this coming Sunday, October 12.
In this regard, Mónica Zalaquett, executive president of Fedetur, stated that “we are observing with great concern the mobilizations occurring in the Port of Valparaíso, just as the start of the cruise season is approaching. This Sunday, the first vessel will arrive, initiating a cycle that is vital for the touristic and economic reactivation of the region and that directly involves hundreds of small and medium-sized enterprises, tour operators, guides, merchants, and local entrepreneurs.”
Furthermore, the head of the federation explained that “cruise tourism has a high impact on the regional economy, boosting gastronomic activity, commerce, and a wide network of associated services. Therefore, it is essential that those who visit Chile find a safe, welcoming, and orderly environment.”
“Any disruption to the normal functioning of the port not only harms local workers and business owners but also risks the international image of the destination, at a time when our country needs to project stability and hospitality,” warned Zalaquett.
“As a federation, we urgently call on the involved parties to reach an understanding that guarantees the normal development of port operations and the proper reception of cruise passengers. Valparaíso must present itself to the world as an open, safe, and prepared city to receive those who choose us as a destination,” emphasized the executive president of Fedetur.
Port Worker Mobilization
The Valparaíso Stevedores’ Union is in the process of negotiating with the company Report, linked to the concession holder Terminal Puerto Valparaíso (TPV) and the Grupo Agunsa. As a pressure measure, the workers have installed fiery barricades on streets near the port facility.
At the same time, TPV has maintained its operations suspended at Terminal 2 since last October 1. Although the union leaders reached an agreement with Report on Friday, October 3, it was rejected by the rank and file the following day. In that context, the concession holder reiterated its willingness to dialogue with the mobilized workers to find a consensual and sustainable solution over time to overcome the situation.
The labor conflict coincides with the first call of a cruise ship to the Port of Valparaíso this 2025 – 2026 season. The vessel Silver Endeavour is scheduled to dock at site 5 of the Terminal Pacífico Sur (TPS) -which is operating normally- at 7 in the morning next Sunday, October 12. However, the current situation in the city’s streets keeps the outlook uncertain.
