Metalworkers on truck drivers' protests: If this situation is not resolved urgently, the damage will be long-term and difficult to compensate

(Patria) - The metal sector of FBiH, which employs tens of thousands of workers and is one of the country's most important export pillars, is facing an extremely serious problem due to the current blockade of freight road traffic.

The Union of Metalworkers of the Federation of BiH points out that metal companies in BiH are mostly export-oriented.

"The consequences of these blockades are already being felt – supply chains have been disrupted, and several companies have already announced a complete halt in production if traffic normalization does not occur by the end of the week.

Every lost day of production and dispatch means loss of markets, jeopardizing jobs, and causing irreparable damage to the domestic economy.

These blockades affect not only metal companies and workers but also the entire economy and citizens of BiH, through the risk of shortages, price increases, and weakening of economic competitiveness.

We fully understand and support the justified demands of the drivers, who have been working in extremely difficult conditions for years. They are the transport bloodstream of this country, their contribution to the economy is immeasurable, and their voice must be taken seriously.

We demand that the representatives of the domestic authorities, who are responsible for this, immediately begin constructive talks with the representatives of transporters and drivers and take concrete steps to resolve their pressing problems, while simultaneously enabling the unimpeded functioning of the economy and the lives of citizens.

If this situation is not resolved urgently, all actors must be aware that the damage will be long-term and difficult to compensate, and workers and citizens will pay the highest price," stated the Union of Metalworkers of the Federation of BiH.