Dockworkers at a major container hub began a 48-hour stoppage on Thursday. Several shipments of green coffee are now waiting offshore.
Importers say the delay will not hurt most roasters this month. Many hold four to six weeks of stock. Smaller roasters who buy lot by lot face the sharpest risk.
What importers are saying
One importer told us that three containers of washed lots are due this week. Each container holds about 275 bags of 69 kilograms (152 pounds).
Freight forwarders expect a backlog of several days even if the strike ends on schedule. Cold-chain and dry-hold storage will fill quickly.
A two-day strike can become a two-week delay.
What roasters should do
Check your inbound lots now. Ask your importer for a revised arrival date in writing. Move any roast plans that depend on new arrivals.
Roasters who run seasonal single origins should also tell customers early. Clear notice protects trust better than a late surprise.
We will update this story as the situation changes.
