Automation Remains a Key Sticking Point in ILA-USMX Negotiations
After just a couple of days negotiating a new master contract, the ILA and USMX have not made significant progress on discussion involving automation issues reports have said.
According to a press release by the USMX, they aren’t looking for technology that would take away jobs. “What we need is continued modernization that is essential to improve worker safety, increase efficiency in a way that protects and grows jobs, keeps supply chains strong, and increases capacity that will financially benefit American businesses and workers alike.”
According to a press release by the ILA, they strongly believe automation/technology should not replace workers. “Together, we’re standing up to USMX and the shipping lines, who are pushing automation and new technology that threaten our jobs and the livelihoods of working people,” ILA President Harold J. Daggett said.
As a reminder, the parties extended the master contract till January 15th, it is uncertain what exactly will take place if no agreement is reached, but a strike would be a likely possibility.
CMA CGM Reverses Decision, Keeps Indamex Service on Cape of Good Hope Route
Just days after revealing plans to reroute its key India-US Indamex service through the Suez Canal, CMA CGM has reversed its decision and will continue using the longer route around the Cape of Good Hope in southern Africa.
In a customer advisory issued last Tuesday and reported by the JOC, “CMA CGM has decided to continue the Indamex service via the Cape of Good Hope routing with the same service schedule.” This comes after the ocean carrier was set to return to the Suez Canal on the Indamex service on November 13th, but things have since changed.
CMA CGM is not the only carrier to rule out the Suez Canal. The Gemini Cooperation (Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd) will also be opting for the Cape of Good Hope route.