Strike looms over US East Coast ports amid rising tensions

Posted on June 17, 2024   |  

US East and Gulf Coast dockworkers might strike this fall as the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) stops negotiations with employers.

The ILA, the largest US dockworker union, paused talks with the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) due to concerns over APM Terminals' automated gates.

The ILA and USMX’s master contract expires at the end of September, increasing the likelihood of a strike.

USMX halted negotiations after discovering APM Terminals and Maersk were using automated gate systems that bypass ILA labor.

This automated gate system was first identified at the Port of Mobile, Alabama, and is reportedly in use at other ports.

Automation by APM Terminals has caused tension which disrupted key contract negotiations.

The ILA’s move to stop talks highlights the growing labor dispute over port automation in the US.