The Port of Santos once again became the scene of worker mobilization this week with a new protest staged by longshoremen in defense of exclusivity in the hiring of casual port labor. The movement, led by the Longshoremen's Union of Santos, São Vicente, Guarujá and Cubatão (Sindestiva), reinforces the category's reaction to changes outlined in Bill 733/2025, currently under review in the National Congress.
According to the category, the proposal threatens one of the main historical pillars of port work: exclusive hiring through the Labor Management Body (OGMO). Workers' concern is that flexibilization will open space for direct hiring and contracting by outsourced companies, which, in the union's view, could result in layoffs, deterioration of working conditions and loss of acquired rights.
The stoppage occurred partially, respecting the ruling of the Regional Labor Court of the 2nd Region (TRT-2), which authorized the strike while maintaining 50% of operational activities at the Santos dock. The measure seeks to balance the category's constitutional right to protest with continuity of a service deemed essential for national logistics.
The protest is part of a series of weekly mobilizations announced by the union, with actions scheduled for Wednesdays until there is a definition on the bill's final report. The category also intends to increase pressure on political leaders and the Federal Government to take a stance on the issue.
Behind the scenes in the port sector, the discussion has generated significant repercussion. Operators advocate for greater flexibility in hiring, while workers argue that the change could impact operational safety and the historical organization of labor at Latin America's largest port.
The new demonstration reignites debate over the future of port work in the country and reinforces the atmosphere of tension surrounding the sector's new legal framework.
Question in the air (editorial tone):
Will the discussion over exclusivity in hiring be addressed solely as a labor issue or also as a strategic matter for efficiency and safety of operations at the Port of Santos?
