Across International Shipping: News and Developments

[Labor] U.S. Longshore Negotiations: According to sources close to the talks, three issues have contributed to the lack of progress in contract negotiations: automation; wages; and pensions.

The longshore union, representing some 45,000 dockworkers across U.S. East and Gulf coast ports, has vowed to strike on Oct. 1 if a favorable proposal is not offered by maritime employers before the existing contract’s expiration date (Sep. 30).

While some cargo has diverted to the West Coast amid uncertainties, both East and Gulf coasts are handling volumes with minimal disturbance at this time. However, less than a month out from the union’s ultimatum, InterlogUSA encourages U.S. shippers to have a conversation with their transportation providers about rerouting upcoming bookings in case the labor dispute deteriorates.

For the latest chronicle on the U.S. longshore contract cycle, refer to our August issue of Interlog Insights!

[Port Update] New York Posts Record-Breaking July: The Port of New York and New Jersey recorded its busiest July ever for imports, surpassing 800,000 twenty-foot-equivalent container units over the seventh month of 2024. The performance was largely propelled by traditional “peak season” imports—back-to-school and holiday retail inventory.

The numbers seen at New York reflect a greater trend observed across the U.S. import market—an earlier start to peak season. Overall, inbound container volumes have soared at the country’s top ports since late spring. Such a trend can be explained by fears importers have expressed over end-of-year uncertainties, mainly labor unrest and the U.S. presidential election.

[Labor] India Port Strike Averted: A strike involving nearly 20,000 unionized workers across key India seaports is no longer imminent as negotiators reached an agreement on a new five-year labor contract.