Port Workers Strike Looms: East and Gulf Coast in Crisis

Port workers on the U.S. East and Gulf Coasts are poised to strike, potentially halting container traffic from Maine to Texas. With no negotiations scheduled, the strike could have severe economic impacts. Labor disputes over pay and terminal automation are at the center of the conflict.

Port workers from the U.S. East and Gulf Coasts are set to strike in less than 10 hours, threatening to halt container traffic from Maine to Texas and cause billions in economic losses daily. The labor contract between the International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) expires late Monday, with talks at an impasse over pay.

Rick Cotton, executive director of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, confirmed at a Monday press conference that the marine terminal gates would close at 5 p.m. ET and remain shut until the strike resolves. The incoming 35 ships will anchor during the strike, adding to nearly 100,000 stalled containers.

U.S. Chamber of Commerce President Suzanne Clark urged President Biden to prevent the strike, but Biden has stated he will not intervene. The strike could cripple supply chains, affecting sectors from food to automobiles. Businesses and political figures express deep concern over the looming crisis.

(With inputs from agencies.)