| US Dockworkers Strike |
| At least 45,000 dockworkers across 36 East and Gulf Coast ports began striking after their contract expired early this morning, the first strike in the US since 1977. The work stoppage could disrupt supply chains and cause delays; see what’s at stake here. The International Longshoremen’s Association and the United States Maritime Alliance, representing the ports, failed to reach an agreement after negotiations stalled in June. The union seeks higher wages and less automation, while the alliance pushes for increased technology use to improve efficiency and reduce costs. The union allegedly requested a $5 an-hour yearly raise for six years, while the alliance offered $2.50 annually. Union members with six or more years of experience earn up to $39 an hour. East and Gulf Coast ports handle more than 68% of containerised exports and more than 56% of containerised imports (see map). Analysts estimate losses to the US economy could be up to $5B per day. President Joe Biden has said he is not planning to invoke a nearly 80-year-old act to order the strikers back to work. Source link |
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