French Polynesia strike only affecting port of Papeete - reports

3:51 pm on 20 September 2018

A general strike in French Polynesia is affecting the port of Papeete but the rest of the economy is reported to be untouched.

Port of Tahiti

The port of Papeete Photo: RNZI Walter Zweifel

Five unions called for the strike to force the government to abandon its pension reform project which is due for debate in the assembly on Friday.

Reports said port workers wouldn't allow any goods to leave the area unless they are perishable goods or pharmaceuticals.

The airport has been spared the stoppage, with a sole worker reportedly on strike.

A union leader said the strike would continue until the government engages in talks not only about the pension reform but also the social security system.

The government said to avoid the collapse of the system the retirement age needed to be raised to 62.

In April, the reform was put on hold after protesters forced their way into the assembly during a general strike.