U.S. port strike averted

An early agreement in the labor dispute between 'ILA' and 'USMX' successfully averted another strike at the ports along the American East and Gulf Coast.

On January 8, 2025, the International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) announced that they had reached a tentative six-year master agreement. The deal will lay the groundwork for future cooperation and modernization of U.S. ports.  

The agreement is designed to protect existing ILA jobs while encouraging the creation of new jobs through the use of modern technology. A major focus will be on modernizing ports on the East and Gulf coasts to make them safer, more efficient and more capable, which should have a positive impact on strengthening supply chains. The agreement is subject to ratification by ILA and USMX members before details are released.  

The agreement has been described as a "win-win" for jobs, the American economy and global markets. A work stoppage has been averted as the contract is expected to be ratified by January 15, 2025.