LA/LB port complex braces for potential strike as labour contract expires

The US ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach face potential disruption from Sunday, as around 250 security workers, represented by the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) Local 26, prepare for strike action amid the ongoing labour dispute.

The latest labour contract extension will expire at 5pm Pacific Time on Sunday, negotiations on an extension or new deal, between the union and employers represented by the Pacific Maritime Association (PMA), continue – no strike has yet been confirmed.

However, the impact of such action would extend well beyond the security workforce. According to the PMA, approximately 85% of all container cargo at Long Beach and 33% at Los Angeles passes through the terminals employing the affected workers.

The concern is that, as industry consultant Lars Jensen pointed out, traditionally other ILWU members will not cross picket lines, potentially bringing operations at affected terminals to a standstill.

This story was originally published by The Loadstar. Read the full story at The Loadstar →