Longshoremen Strike Begins: TIA Calls for Swift Action to Protect U.S. Supply Chain and Consumers

Alexandria, Va., Oct. 1, 2024] — As the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) strike officially begins at East and Gulf Coast ports, the Transportation Intermediaries Association (TIA) urges an immediate and collaborative resolution to the labor dispute. With the supply chain already under pressure and the holiday shopping season approaching, this disruption threatens severe economic consequences for businesses and consumers alike.

TIA President & CEO Anne Reinke made the following statement:

“With the longshoremen’s strike now in effect, the disruption to our supply chain is both immediate and far-reaching, impacting industries from retail to manufacturing at a crucial time—just as the holiday season begins. As industry experts have noted, for every day of the strike, it will take five to seven days to recover.  Essential goods are at risk of delays and price increases, which will severely affect consumers nationwide. With 43% of U.S. imports moving through these ports, the economic consequences will deepen the longer the strike continues.

We strongly urge both the ILA and United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) to resolve their differences at the bargaining table. Additionally, we call on President Biden to intervene and facilitate a resolution to protect the stability of the U.S. economy and supply chain. The integrity of our supply chain is at stake, and further delays will only worsen the impact on businesses and consumers alike.”