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Potential port strike threatens U.S supply chain
The head of the Soy Transportation Coalition says the ag industry is preparing for a blow to its supply chain as the potential for a port strike is becoming a reality.
Mike Steenhoek says the International Longshoremen’s Association has threatened to strike if a new contract agreement can’t be reached with the U.S. Maritime Alliance by the end of the month.
“Disagreement remains over things like wages, salaries, and healthcare benefits,” he said. “A big sticking point is any potential use of automation in the future at these ports. The labor unions are strongly resistant toward it.”
He tells Brownfield a shutdown of East and Gulf Coast export facilities would directly impact the shipment of ag goods by container.
“We do export less than 10% of soybeans and soybean meal via containers,” Steenhoek said. “A lot of meat products and poultry products are exported via refrigerated containers. You can’t harm the domestic livestock industry without simultaneously harming soybean farmers.”
At a September 5th meeting, 300 ILA delegates voted unanimously to support a strike on October 1st if a new six-year contract is not achieved.
Steenhoek says the last strike along the East Coast occurred in 1977.
INTERVIEW: Mike Steenhoek 9-10-2024
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