🚢⚠️ With the January 15, 2025, ILA contract extension deadline approaching, U.S. seaports face uncertainty. Past strikes over wages and port automation brought temporary agreements, but what’s next for domestic and international shipping?
Trump Is Imposing Tariff Hikes
The Trump administration is shaking up global trade. Starting January 20th, President-elect Trump plans to impose a 25% tariff hike on imports from Canada, and Mexico. This move can have major implications for global trade.
Milton Disrupting Supply Chains
Hurricane Milton severely disrupted supply chains in Florida, affecting importers and exporters nationwide. With Florida being a key entry point, the ripple effects could last for weeks.
ILA Port Strike Beginning
After months of failed negotiations, the ILA port strike has begun. Dockworkers across East and Gulf Coast ports are protesting the end of their six-year contract with the (USMX), which expired on September 30th.
A Port Strike Is Imminent
A port strike is on the horizon as the clock ticks down to midnight on September 30th, with dockworkers from the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) preparing to walk off the job.
Ports Preparing For ILA Protests
Ports are preparing for a potential strike by ILA workers on October 1st which could disrupt U.S. ports after failed talks with the U.S. Maritime Alliance. With over 40% of imports at risk, the strike could cost $5 billion daily and cause delays.
New Surcharges As Strike Nears
As the ILA strike nears on October 1st, top shipping lines Hapag-Lloyd and CMA CGM are imposing new surcharges for East and Gulf Coast ports, starting mid-October. The ILA is pushing back on automation, and fighting for wage increases, and pension demands.
Tariff Increase On Imports
Starting September 27th, the Biden Administration will raise tariffs on Chinese imports like electric vehicles, batteries, solar panels, and semiconductors. This comes after a USTR review of Section 301 tariffs aimed at promoting fair trade. While some increases hit in 2024, others will phase in over three years.
The Potential Impact of A Strike
The shipping industry is bracing for a potential ILA strike as contract talks stall ahead of the October 1st deadline. The International Longshoremen’s Association is pushing for higher wages, better benefits, and restrictions on automation, but negotiations with the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) have hit a standstill. If no agreement is reached, major port disruptions could follow.
ILA Doubling Down On Threats
Tensions are mounting as the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) threatens a strike on October 1st over unresolved negotiations with the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX). The ILA is demanding a 32% wage hike, higher pensions, and is pushing back against port automation. With talks at a standstill since June, the risk of disruption looms large.