Catherwood LibraryILR School

Labor negotiations between the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) and the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) have reached an impasse, raising the likelihood of a labor strike that could disrupt cargo-handling operations at ports from Houston to Boston just weeks before the US presidential election. The two sides are deeply divided, particularly over wage increases and automation issues. The ILA has warned of a potential strike if no deal is reached soon, while some importers have started rerouting cargo and stockpiling goods in anticipation of disruptions that could impact the holiday season. The Retail Industry Leaders Association has called on the Biden administration to intervene if necessary to prevent a labor stoppage.