East Coast Gulf Ports Secure Sixyear Labor Deal Avoid Strikes

East Coast Gulf Ports Secure Sixyear Labor Deal Avoid Strikes

The United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) and the International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) have reached a tentative labor agreement, bringing six years of stability to the US East and Gulf Coast ports. The agreement includes details on wage increases and contract duration, subject to member ratification. This development is expected to avert potential labor disruptions, alleviating shippers' concerns about the supply chain and shifting focus to labor negotiations on the West Coast. The deal provides much-needed certainty for businesses relying on these vital trade gateways.

01/29/2026 Logistics
Read More
US Retailers Seek White House Help to Avert Port Strike

US Retailers Seek White House Help to Avert Port Strike

The National Retail Federation (NRF) is actively urging the White House to intervene in the labor negotiations between the International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) to avert a potential port strike starting October 1st. The article analyzes the potential economic impacts of a strike, including goods shortages, price increases, and supply chain disruptions. It also offers advice for businesses on how to prepare. With time running short, all parties need to reach an agreement quickly to ensure supply chain stability.

01/29/2026 Logistics
Read More
Retailers Seek White House Help Amid West Coast Port Delays

Retailers Seek White House Help Amid West Coast Port Delays

The National Retail Federation (NRF) is urging the White House to intervene in labor negotiations between the International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) to avert a potential port strike. This looming crisis threatens not only the retail industry but also the broader U.S. economy. The NRF, along with 177 trade associations, sent a letter to President Biden emphasizing the need for immediate White House action to facilitate a new agreement and prevent a recurrence of West Coast port congestion.

01/29/2026 Logistics
Read More
Retailers Push White House to Mediate Port Labor Talks

Retailers Push White House to Mediate Port Labor Talks

The National Retail Federation (NRF), along with 177 trade associations, is urging the White House to intervene in the labor negotiations between the International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) to avert a potential port strike starting October 1st. The NRF emphasizes that a strike would have a disastrous impact on retail, manufacturing, agriculture, and the overall economy. They urge all parties to draw on past successful experiences and reach an agreement quickly, or at least maintain port operations during the negotiation period.

01/29/2026 Logistics Industry Insights
Read More
Northwest Seaport Sees Container Decline Auto Shipments Rise

Northwest Seaport Sees Container Decline Auto Shipments Rise

The Northwest Seaport Alliance saw a 22% year-over-year decrease in international container throughput in August, though it improved compared to July. A significant highlight was automobile transportation, which surged by 127.1% year-over-year. This report analyzes the reasons behind the container volume decline and the drivers of automobile transport growth. It proposes strategies for the port to adapt to market changes, emphasizing the importance of diversifying business, optimizing supply chains, and enhancing service quality to maintain competitiveness and resilience in a dynamic global trade environment.

01/16/2026 Logistics
Read More
Fourkites Infosys Partner to Boost Supply Chain Visibility

Fourkites Infosys Partner to Boost Supply Chain Visibility

FourKites and Infosys have partnered to accelerate supply chain innovation and address challenges posed by the pandemic. This alliance offers end-to-end solutions, jointly expands market reach, and enhances supply chain visibility capabilities. The collaboration aims to provide businesses with real-time insights and improved control over their supply chains, enabling them to make more informed decisions and optimize their operations. By combining FourKites' leading visibility platform with Infosys' expertise in digital transformation, the partnership promises to deliver significant value to customers seeking to build more resilient and agile supply chains.

01/19/2026 Logistics
Read More
East Coast Port Labor Talks Resume Amid Supply Chain Concerns

East Coast Port Labor Talks Resume Amid Supply Chain Concerns

The International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) have resumed labor negotiations to resolve automation disputes before the current agreement expires on January 15th. The goal is to avert a potential strike that could shut down ports along the U.S. East and Gulf Coasts. The core issue is the use of semi-automated gantry cranes, balancing worker job security with improved port efficiency. The outcome of these negotiations is crucial for global supply chain stability. Businesses should closely monitor the situation and develop contingency plans.

01/18/2026 Logistics
Read More
US Dockworkers Employers Negotiate to Prevent Automation Strike

US Dockworkers Employers Negotiate to Prevent Automation Strike

The International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) have resumed labor negotiations to avert a potential strike stemming from disputes over automation. Automation is crucial for improving efficiency but poses a threat to worker employment. Both parties need to find a balance that meets the demands of port development while safeguarding worker interests. A resolution is needed to avoid significant disruptions to the supply chain and the broader economy. The negotiations aim to find a mutually acceptable path forward regarding the implementation of automation technologies.

01/18/2026 Logistics
Read More
Ivory Coast Launches Transparent Customs System to Boost Trade

Ivory Coast Launches Transparent Customs System to Boost Trade

With support from the EU-WCO and the German Alliance for Trade Facilitation, Côte d'Ivoire is actively developing a national Advance Ruling System. This initiative aims to enhance trade transparency and predictability, reduce trade disputes, attract foreign investment, and improve customs efficiency. The system is expected to revitalize Côte d'Ivoire's trade development and serve as a model for other African nations. It will provide traders with binding rulings on tariff classification, origin, and other customs-related matters before import or export, fostering a more predictable and reliable trading environment.

01/22/2026 Customs Knowledge
Read More
East and Gulf Coast Ports Agree to Sixyear Labor Pact with Wage Increases

East and Gulf Coast Ports Agree to Sixyear Labor Pact with Wage Increases

The International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) have reached a new six-year agreement covering 36 ports on the US East and Gulf Coasts. Key aspects include wage increases and guidelines for the implementation of automation technologies. The agreement aims to ensure supply chain stability, enhance port competitiveness, and promote harmonious labor relations. While offering opportunities for stable port development, the agreement also presents challenges related to the ongoing automation transformation within the industry. This deal is crucial for the future of maritime operations in the region.

01/20/2026 Logistics
Read More