A looming strike by dockworkers at the Port of Miami and 35 other critical ports along the U.S. East Coast and Gulf Coast threatens to disrupt commercial activities in the region and raise product prices in the last quarter of the year. The strike, called by the International Longshoremen's Association (ILA), is expected to begin this Tuesday, involving over 45,000 employees who handle 60% of the containers moving in and out of the country.
The dockworkers are demanding a 77% wage increase spread over six years and job protection against increasing port automation. "These companies make billions of dollars and should share some of the profits with us," stated Harold Daggett, president of the longshoremen's union.
Dockworkers Demand Better Working Conditions
Last week, a Cuban resident in Texas working at the Port of Houston suffered a severe workplace accident when a portion of cargo collapsed on him. This incident sparked a wave of comments about employee safety in ports and the inherent risks they face. It also ignited a debate on social media regarding whether the worker assistance protocols at the Port of Houston were properly followed.
Coincidentally, news of this dockworker strike emerged shortly after, which is expected to affect the flow of goods and have a significant economic impact, costing an estimated $5 billion per day, according to Jonathan Gold of the National Retail Federation. Consumers may see price increases due to delays in the supply chain and additional transportation costs.
Truckers Also Face Challenges Amid Port Strikes
Truckers have voiced their concerns about the strike, fearing it will severely impact their work. Some have complained that their sector lacks the same ability to make demands due to the threat of labor reprisals.
Authorities at the Port of Miami are taking steps to ensure the continuity of operations by establishing safe zones for protests that won't disrupt access or commercial activities. However, port congestion is expected to rise, causing delays that will particularly affect deliveries during the holiday shopping season.