Union workers at two major Port of Oakland terminals organized a no-show on Friday June 2nd with spread to other ports over the weekend into Monday June 5th. This was effectively a strike, closing the Port of Oakland that is responsible for exports. Closure for even a short period will affect agricultural shipments and trade.
The International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) representing workers on West Coast ports has been in negotiation with the Pacific Maritime Association to conclude an agreement over a period of 14 months. Issues including job security and pension benefits are both under review, although it is understood that considerable progress has been made in recent weeks on safety, remuneration and health care.
Following uncertainty over the reliability of West Coast ports and following extensive upgrading and improvements to Gulf and East Coast ports, importers are moving volume from the Ports of Los Angeles, Oakland and Long Beach. This factor, together with progressive introduction of automation has created concern among rank and file members of the ILWU over future job security. Exports of
agricultural products to Asia will obviously be affected by port closures that could extend from Los Angeles to Seattle.
Industry and trade associations have requested the Department of Labor to become involved in negotiations and to mediate an agreement as previously required for the previous contract.