Port unions' early contract talks

Maritime union locals representing dockworkers at 36 ports from Maine to Texas have opened contract talks with employers ahead of the current multi-year agreement that's set to expire in 2024. Industry officials say the early start is a signal both sides are eager to get a new contract amid a period of strained labor-management relations across industries. The International Longshoremen’s Association, which represents Gulf and East Coast dockworkers, in September asked its locals to open talks with regional employer groups, according to ILA spokesman. The union's aim is to resolve or identify local issues by mid-February so it could move to negotiate a master agreement with the United States Maritime Alliance. The current contract expires Sept. 30, 2024. West Coast negotiations have been stalled since mid-summer. Members of the ILA and Warehouse Union have been working without a contract since then. Importers wary of potential work slowdowns or strike at key gateways for Asia trade have pushed more inbound goods to Gulf and East Coast ports. The uncertainty on the West Coast has contributed to double-digit declines in import volumes toward the end of 2023 at the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach, historically the nation’s busiest. Industry officials say talks covering Gulf and East Coast ports face fewer stumbling blocks. (Hellenic Shipping 02/09/23) U.S. East Coast Port Workers Begin Early Contract Talks | Hellenic Shipping News Worldwide