• In a statement, the Alliance of Chadian Economic Operators’ Organizations and Unions (ASOET) called for a strike on December 30 at the N’Gueli dry port and the closure of all markets in N’Djamena.
• The union further threatened to extend the strike nationally if the organization’s demands are not met. Their demands are for the government to suspend the Chad Handling Company (SMT) which manages the Dry Port of N’Gueli.
• The Chadian Minister of Commerce ordered a field mission to assess ASOET’s claims against SMT on December 27.

1. ASOET is demanding that the government dissolve the cargo handling service, SMT, who has a monopoly on logistical services in the city. ASOET claims that the SMT is overcharging clients, and not providing services that were promised in a 2020 agreement. ASOET officials point to a pattern of non-compliance and bad practices at the Dry Port of N’Guili. Multiple attempts by ASOET in December to engage authorities on this issue have been unsuccessful. FORECAST: While the Minister of Commerce’s field mission creates potential for last-minute intervention, the previous failed mediation attempts show that the strike is likely to proceed.
2. The Dry Port of N’Gueli is the primary entry point for goods and resources into Chad, and is managed by the SMT. FORECAST: The ASOET strike may slow operations in the port, as ASOET members who normally use the port pause their business functions. Extended disruptions at this location will likely have a negative impact on the supply chain within N’Djamena in particular. Their strike at the markets in N’Djamena could likewise cause disruptions to commerce and the availability of goods in the capital.

Those operating or residing in N’Djamena on December 30 are advised to prepare for possible supply chain disruptions in the coming weeks due to the ASOET strike and potential effects on the movement of goods at markets and the N’Gueli dry port.