Back on September 18, 2024, I mentioned to my viewers, during a livestream on YouTube, that thousands of port workers in the United States may go on strike on October 1, 2024. As of today, September 29, 2024, a strike seems highly likely.
A massive force of 45,000 workers, at U.S. ports from Maine to Texas, may go on strike if their demands are not met. The demands include higher wages and a complete ban on the automation of cranes, gates, and container movements that are used to load and unload freight at three dozen American ports.
The two entities, International Longshoremen’s Association and the United States Maritime Alliance, must negotiate successfully in order prevent a major strike from taking place. And if the port workers go on strike, the impacts on our economy would be severe.
During a livestream last night, I discussed the matter in greater details. I talked about how we may see empty shelves at stores, experience food shortage, and also suffer from a shortage of critical medications, if 45,000 port workers go on strike.
The United States of America is engaged in trade with countries all over the world. We import, as well as export, many goods. If a strike takes place, international trade will be severely impacted, and businesses will lose a lot of money.
The Retail Industry Leaders Association has stated that retailers “are increasingly concerned about the negative impacts a strike at U.S. East and Gulf Coast ports will have on supply chains and the broader economy.”
The American Farm Bureau Federation has stated that a port strike could “sink access to foreign markets.” This would severely hurt exporters.
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has stated that a strike would “immediately disrupt the flow of numerous goods and materials — sending shock waves across the economy and harming consumers and businesses at a time when inflation remains a significant concern.”
As an American, I am deeply concerned about the possibility of a strike at three dozen U.S. ports. I am worried about the impacts that a strike would have on the American economy.
To watch my livestreams on this topic, please see the videos below.
