AUSTRALIAN shippers suffer from escalating disruption from docker go-slows and intermittent strikes at DP World terminals in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Fremantle, reports New York's Journal of Commerce.

DP World reported that the Maritime Union of Australia (MUA) has engaged in work bans and stoppages, resulting in a substantial economic toll.

The estimated cost to the country has reached US$900 million due to cargo delays, increased transportation costs, and lost orders since the commencement of the dispute in October.

The situation has worsened recently, with the MUA extending the duration of weekly work stoppages from 24 to 48 hours at DP World terminals.

The impact of these disruptions prompted Maersk to make the decision to permanently exclude Sydney from its service from February.

Brisbane will take Sydney's place, with transshipment of US east coast and Latin America cargo occurring in Tauranga, New Zealand, and then being fed to Sydney.

The last call to Sydney is scheduled for January 23, and Brisbane's first call is set for January 30, according to the carrier.

Freight & Trade Alliance director Paul Zalai noted that international vessel delays currently range from two to five weeks.

DP World revealed that there are over 44,000 containers facing delays at ports, creating a backlog that will require two to eight weeks to clear, contingent on the resolution of the ongoing industrial action.