Tentative Deal Reached Ending East & Gulf Coast Port Strike

The recent labor negotiations between the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) culminated in a significant development after a brief, but impactful, strike that began on October 1, 2024. This labor action resulted in the temporary closure of U.S. East Coast and Gulf ports, affecting the movement of cargo and causing disruptions across the supply chain.

After three days of striking, ILA members agreed to a tentative deal on October 3, 2024, which includes a substantial 61% pay increase, translating to $4 per hour over the duration of the new contract. Additionally, the agreement extends the master contract to January 15, 2025, allowing both parties to negotiate unresolved issues. The union, representing approximately 45,000 workers, had initiated the strike due to a failure to reach an agreement on wage increases and other key contract provisions. Now that a tentative agreement is in place, port operations have resumed. The deal will require ratification by union members before it is finalized.

As GCCA continues to work with policy makers regarding strike related supply chain disruptions, it is important that GCCA understands how member operations have been affected. We initiated a survey on October 3^rd to collect member input on the impacts of the strike. While the strike has ended, at least until January 15^th, it would still be helpful for GCCA to better understand how this situation has impacted your business. We recognize that not only facilities located on the East and Gulf Coast ports are impacted by such a strike. We are seeking input from all impacted members, no matter where they are located, to better tell the full story to policy makers. Please take a moment to complete this brief survey.

GCCA will continue closely monitoring the situation and engaging with policy makers and industry partners to protect the integrity of the cold chain and the broader supply chain.