Multiple news outlets in Finland are reporting that the Finnish Transport Workers’ Union (AKT) and the Finnish Port Operators’ Association have come to an agreement to halt the most recent strike. The strike, which began more than two weeks ago, had suspended the loading and unloading of cargo ships at ports across Finland. 

According to Port Technology International, the new collective bargaining agreement applies to stevedores and will see pay increases of 6.3% over the 25-month agreement term, with a one-off payment of €1,100 ($1,168). AKT had previously rejected two earlier proposals to settle the labor dispute.

“At AKT, we are satisfied with both the signed collective agreement and the end of the labor dispute,” explains Ismo Kokko, AKT chairman. “The round has been difficult because the negotiations have included an exceptionally large number of external factors. From the beginning, we have negotiated our own starting points, taking into account the interests of our own members.”

The Finnish union represents approximately 45,000 members and had been seeking pay increases that aligned with those granted in Germany. Reportedly, the agreement will not introduce other significant changes to the terms and conditions of employment for stevedores.

Stevedores are expected to return to work imminently and no later than Sunday. Port Technology International adds that AKT has also recently approved new terms and conditions of employment for lorry, tanker, and oil product drivers, and terminal workers.

Strikes are deemed to be a regular part of business negotation in Finalnd. Multiple reports cited other ongoing labor negotations in Finland, as AKT also recently launched a bus drivers’ strike that halted up to 90% of public bus services in Helsinki and other urban areas. Plus, Sajavaara has issued a settlement proposal in a labor dispute in the railway sector, with a threatened strike looming on Monday.