Billions in Trade at Risk as U.S. Ports Go On Historic Strike 🚢

What We’re Showing

This graphic shows where port workers have gone on strike in the U.S., as of Oct. 1, 2024. Critically, this is the first large-scale eastern dockworker strike in nearly 50 years.

Why the Strike?

Members of the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) walked off the job on Tuesday after the union failed to reach an agreement with the U.S. Maritime Alliance (USMX). The current contract between the USMX and the ILA expired on Sept. 30.

According to reporting by CNBC, the ILA is looking to secure a generous bonus package in addition to preventing the automation of ports.

“Now it’s all about greed and money. ... They want to put a fully automated terminal in and get rid of us. I’m not going to allow that. I will never allow that.” –Harold Daggett, International President of the ILA

Economic Impact

The strike comes at an unfortunate time, as Hurricane Helene has recently damaged infrastructure along the East and Gulf coast.

It’s been reported that some companies were already attempting to move cargo from the East to West Coast in anticipation of the strike.

Analysis by The Conference Board estimates a one-week strike could cost the U.S. $3.8 billion, while Maersk has warned a one-week shutdown could cause a 4-6 week backlog.