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Ambassador McKalip discusses port strike situation

The U.S. Trade Representative’s Office has been monitoring the ongoing port strike situation along the East and Gulf Coasts.

Chief ag negotiator Doug McKalip tells Brownfield a resolution is needed soon. “There is a lot of work going into this current situation. Certainly, the administration is encouraging all parties to come to the bargaining table and negotiate in good faith.”

More than 35 East and Gulf Coast ports were at a standstill beginning Tuesday morning due to a labor union strike.

McKalip says a large number of ag goods are shipped by container through these ports. “Not just from the standpoint of exports, but there’s certainly a great amount of food that comes in as well. That’s a concern. And then of course equipment and raw materials.”

He says the Biden administration has “all hands on deck” to encourage both parties to reach a labor resolution.

INTERVIEW: Chief Ag Negotiator Doug McKalip 10-1-2024