Workers at Port Houston could go on strike if their union, the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA), and the U.S. Maritime Association (USMX) fail to reach a contract agreement by Monday.
This potential strike, along with others across the country, could result in millions of dollars’ worth of shipments being delayed, according to industry experts. If no deal is made, the disruption could halt container shipments at Port Houston.
The contract between the ILA, the largest maritime workers’ union in the U.S., and the USMX is set to expire on Monday, and a strike could begin as early as next Tuesday.
“A strike of this scale would significantly damage the U.S. economy,” said Margaret Kidd, director of supply chain and logistics at the University of Houston. She reassured consumers not to worry immediately but warned that a prolonged strike could lead to shortages of goods like fruits, vegetables, and automotive parts.
The union is pushing for higher wages and protections against automation. Tim Sensenig, owner of TMSfirst, a transportation software company, noted that major companies like Exxon and LyondellBasell might be forced to halt production if shipments are disrupted.
In a statement on Thursday, USMX accused the ILA of avoiding negotiations and filed an unfair labor practice charge with the National Labor Relations Board to keep talks moving forward. The ILA countered, criticizing USMX’s actions just days before the contract expires and emphasized that they’ve had multiple discussions recently.
Despite the looming deadline, Kidd remains optimistic. “Even if a strike happens, I believe an agreement will be reached soon. Shutting down the port for a month or two would have massive consequences, and I think federal intervention is likely,” she said.
Port Houston also released a statement noting that it is not part of the negotiations but acknowledges a strike could impact its operations.
