Hamburg's port operations have ground to a halt as workers launched a two-day warning strike on Tuesday.

The Ver.

di trade union called for the walkout to pressure employers in ongoing wage negotiations.

Union members are demanding a three-euro hourly wage increase and higher shift bonuses, citing the impact of inflation on lower wage groups.

The strike began with the early shift at 6:30 AM, with workers initially protesting at their workplaces.

A demonstration through the city is planned for Wednesday.

This action follows similar strikes in June across northern German ports.

The next round of negotiations between Ver.

di and the Central Association of German Seaport Companies is scheduled for July 11-12 in Bremen.