The Port Strike's Effect on Maritime Commerce (CRS Report for Congress)
| Release Date |
Oct. 1, 2024 |
| Report Number |
IN12432 |
| Report Type |
Insight |
| Authors |
John Frittell |
| Source Agency |
Congressional Research Service |
Summary:
The strike by port dockworkers (commonly called longshoremen) at East and Gulf Coast ports has raised
concerns about the economic impact should the strike last more than a few days. The International
Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) and the U.S. Maritime Alliance, Ltd., the employers representing
ocean carriers and port terminal operators, have not been able to renew their six-year labor-management
agreement that expired on September 30, 2024. Disagreement over wage increases and port automation
reportedly are the main sticking points.
The ILA represents longshoremen at East and Gulf Coast ports that handle containerized cargo—the
loading and unloading of container ships—as well as “car carrier” ships that carry automobiles. The strike
will not shut down other port activity, such as the loading/unloading of oil and gas tankers, and dry bulk
vessels carrying products like grain and coal in bulk form. The ILA also handles supplies for cruise ships;
reportedly, they will continue to work these ships to avoid disrupting the public’s travel plans.
In 2022, East and Gulf Coast seaports accounted for 60% of the import and export containers shipped
through U.S. seaports (the West Coast seaports accounted for 40%). This same year, East and Gulf Coast
seaports accounted for 15 of the top 20 U.S. container ports.
