East and Gulf Coast Ports on alert as strike threat intensifies

Posted on March 4, 2024   |  

The labor agreement between the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) is nearing its expiration in September.

Representing around 70,000 dockworkers, the ILA is countered by the USMX, which represents employers at 36 coastal ports, including major hubs like New York and New Jersey, Savannah, and Houston.

Negotiations commenced in February 2023 but hit a roadblock over wage increases.

ILA leadership cautioned members about a potential coastwide strike in October 2024 if an agreement isn't reached by the contract's end.

Concerns from entities like the National Retail Federation highlight the need for mediation to resolve differences between the ILA and USMX.

Recent labor victories, such as the Teamsters' pact with UPS and the United Auto Workers' gains post-strike against automakers, have emboldened the ILA.

The West Coast experienced labor disruptions following the failure of the ILWU and the Pacific Maritime Association to finalize a contract in July 2022.

During this period, East and Gulf Coast ports consistently outperformed their West Coast counterparts for 23 consecutive months.

Despite contract resolutions, lingering confidence issues among shippers continued to impact port operations.