The incoming Trump administration could face a critical challenge as labor tensions threaten another strike across the US east and Gulf coasts. The International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) had paused its strike after reaching a temporary wage agreement with the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) last month. However, with their contract expiring on January 15, both sides have struggled to resolve key automation issues in recent negotiations.
USMX stated that despite progress on several matters, talks stalled due to disagreements over technology use. The ILA remains firm in rejecting any proposals for semi-automated cranes, viewing them as a threat to jobs.
Meanwhile, port operations in British Columbia are set to resume following federal intervention, though the ILWU Local 514 plans to challenge the order in court.
