The threat of a strike on the US East Coast
The East Coast of the United States is facing the first threat of a longshoreman strike since 1977. Thousands of workers at major ports in the East and Gulf of Mexico are prepared to strike within the next 24 hours. The situation threatens to close the trade gates that handle about half of all goods shipped in containers to and from the US. President Joe Biden has said that he will not intervene in the dispute and that it should be resolved through collective bargaining.
Impact of a potential strike
Experts warn that port closures could seriously disrupt the flow of goods and increase transport costs. Any increase in these costs could be passed on to consumers as inflation in the US stabilises. A potential strike could also affect the strategy of the Federal Reserve, which plans to cut interest rates.
Dispute over wages in containers
One of the key issues in the dispute is salaries. Workers on the East Coast earn significantly less than their colleagues on the West Coast. The union is demanding a 77% wage increase over a six-year period to compensate for inflation. However, the USMX union has so far only offered "leading" wage increases, which the parties are still far from agreeing to.
Impacts on global container transport
A potential strike could impact not only U.S. ports, but also global container shipping. Ports on the East Coast and in the Gulf of Mexico handle large volumes of containerized goods, and any disruption to this flow could have a domino effect on global supply chains.
Preparations for the strike
Transport companies and businesses are preparing for a possible strike. Some companies are seeking early deliveries, while others are looking for alternative routes through Canada and Mexico. Unions on both coasts are calling for a deal before the current contract expires.
Government and business response
The government and business representatives are calling on both sides to reach an agreement. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg and other top government officials met with USMX representatives to encourage them to negotiate. Economists say the work stoppage could temporarily put more than 100,000 workers in various sectors out of work.
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