Port workers in the southeastern U.S. have officially launched a full-scale strike, halting cargo operations at major ports. According to a report from Reuters on the 1st, the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA), representing 45,000 dockworkers, announced the start of the strike, effectively stopping cargo loading and unloading at 36 ports along the U.S. East Coast and the Gulf of Mexico, including Texas.

The strike stems from failed negotiations between labor and management over wage increases in renewing a collective bargaining agreement that expired on September 30. The union has rejected the wage increase proposed by management, stating it is insufficient to meet workers' demands. Additionally, the union is strongly opposing the automation of port operations, which they argue threatens workers' job security.

Harold Daggett, President of the ILA, stated, “We are prepared to fight until the end for fair wage increases and to protect jobs from port automation.” The U.S. Maritime Association (USMX), which represents management, reportedly offered to increase wages by nearly 50%, but the union did not accept the proposal. This marks the first simultaneous strike by East Coast port workers since 1977, nearly 47 years ago.

The strike is expected to have negative repercussions on the U.S. economy. Over 100,000 containers are currently awaiting unloading at ports near New York alone. If the supply chain, ranging from food to automobiles, is disrupted, it could lead to increased shipping costs and inflation. JP Morgan previously estimated that the strike could cause up to $5 billion in daily losses for the U.S. economy. With the presidential election in November approaching, the White House is also closely monitoring public opinion in response to the widespread port workers' strike.



<Hongyong Park>