Strike stalls traffic at Greek Border: Truck crossings halted, critical warning issued
A farmers’ strike in Greece has brought truck crossings to a near standstill at several key border gates, including İpsala and Bahçeköy (Kipi). Türkiye’s Ministry of Trade has issued an urgent advisory for drivers and logistics companies.
According to a statement released yesterday via the Ministry’s official social media accounts, truck operations at the İpsala and Kipi Customs Gates have been suspended since the evening of 2 December 2025 due to the ongoing protest.
The Ministry reported that the Ormenio Customs Gate, located on Greece’s border with Bulgaria, has also been blocked by protesting farmers.
Ministry Warns Drivers: Seek Alternative Routes
Emphasizing the risk posed to vehicles carrying perishable or critical goods, the Ministry announced that it has taken action to prevent disruptions for specific categories of trucks:
“Necessary initiatives have been made to exempt vehicles transporting fish, eggs, fruits and vegetables, flowers, medical supplies, and ADR-certified chemical tankers from the strike restrictions.”
Officials also warned that the strike will not be limited to the Türkiye–Greece route. Farmers are expected to stage similar actions at Greece’s border crossings with Bulgaria and North Macedonia, where TIR passage may also be restricted.
The Ministry noted that the strike is expected to continue between 15–21 December, underscoring the importance of redirecting trucks to alternative customs gates to avoid bottlenecks.
The announcement concluded with the message: “Respectfully submitted to the public.”
