The International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) is demanding a pay increase of approximately 77 percent over six years and a ban on port automation, while negotiations with the United States Maritime Alliance have stalled since June.
A prolonged strike could lead to shortages, price increases, and significant supply chain disruptions, affecting various industries including retail, automotive, and agriculture.
A strike would severely disrupt the supply chain, leading to shortages and increased costs for businesses and consumers. The timing couldn't be worse, with the holiday season approaching and the economy already facing inflationary pressures. The potential economic impact is too significant to ignore, especially with a presidential election just weeks away.