Dockworkers and port operators reached a tentative agreement yesterday to suspend the strike while continuing negotiations.

PHOTO: Aerial view of the Port of Houston, Texas. Getty Images

The International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) announced that it has reached a tentative wage agreement with the United States Maritime Alliance, extending the master contract until 15 January 2025.

This agreement allows both parties to continue negotiations until 15 January to resolve any pending issues, while workers remain on the job.

The ILA, a union of maritime workers in North America, went on strike on Tuesday, crippling operations at several Gulf Coast and East Coast ports in the US for nearly three days. The strike was prompted by wage disputes with the United States Maritime Alliance, which represents terminal operators, port associations and carriers in East and Gulf Coast ports.

Several US ports are now gradually returning to normal operations. Port of Houston Authority announced that it will be soon “re-opening Port Houston’s Bayport and Barbours Cut Container Terminals swiftly and safely.” All container operations in these terminals were suspended due to the strike action.

The Georgia Ports Authority also said operations in the ports of Savannah and Brunswick will fully resume from this morning.  

By Nithin Chandran

Please get in touch with comments or additional info to news@engine.online