Brazil: Truck drivers’ protests continue nationwide May 26 /update 4

Event

The Brazilian truck drivers' strike and protests have continued nationwide on Saturday, May 26, with roadblocks reported in at least 18 states, despite a deal reached between truckers and government officials on Thursday, May 24. Associated fuel shortages have also been reported throughout the country, with many states forced to reduce public bus services. The Brazilian Federal Highway Police (PRF) reportedly cleared some 544 road blockades across the country on Friday, May 25; the PRF stated that some 596 blockades remain in place around the country as of Saturday, forcing the closure of several highways to traffic. At least 11 airports around the country are without adequate supplies of fuel. Some 40 flights have been canceled at Brasília International Airport (BSB) as of May 26.

The continuation of the protests come after President Michel Temer threatened on Friday to deploy the army to forcibly remove roadblocks. A major organizer of the protests, the Abcam drivers' association, has since instructed its members to clear the roadblocks under the threat of state force. Despite this decision, continuing protests, associated blockades, and consequent fuel shortages and transportation disruptions (including flight and bus delays and cancelations) are expected in Brazil in the coming days.

Context

São Paulo authorities declared a state of emergency on May 25 in response to the ongoing truck drivers' strike. Under the state of emergency, authorities have effectively suspended administrative services deemed nonessential to conserve fuel. The fuel shortages have resulted in service station closures and long lines at open stations. There are also fears that airports will run out of fuel. BSB has reportedly already stopped allowing aircraft from landing at the airport unless they have enough fuel for their outbound flights. 

The strike was called to pressure the government and the national energy company Petrobras to take measures to reduce fuel prices. According to the Brazilian government, truck drivers have agreed to suspend their nationwide strike for a 15-day period (i.e. until June 8) following a deal reached on May 24. However, at least one major union has said it would continue with the strike, which along with associated roadblocks in cities and on highways has resulted in major disruptions throughout the country, including shortages of goods and fuel. Even if the strike were to end completely, trucking companies warn it would take a full 12 days for conditions to return to normal.

Diesel prices in the country have reportedly nearly doubled since 2016.

Advice

Individuals in Brazil are advised to monitor the situation, confirm flights, avoid all protests as a precaution, stock up on essential goods, and allow for extra time to reach their destinations.