Several parts of the US West Coast shipping sector have welcomed the tentative agreement between the Pacific Maritime Association (PMA) and the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) after a long period of negotiations.
California’s key container ports, which saw operational challenges from port worker actions during the negotiations, applauded the representatives of the aforementioned bodies who came to an agreement, as well as Acting US Secretary of Labor Julie Su for its key role in the discussions.
“The tentative agreement brings the stability and confidence that customers have been seeking. We’re grateful to Acting Secretary of Labor Julie Su, ILWU International President Willie Adams and PMA President James McKenna for their leadership and resolve. We look forward to collaborating with our partners in a renewed effort to bring back cargo and demonstrate why Los Angeles is the first choice for Trans-Pacific trade,” stated Port of Los Angeles executive director Gene Seroka.
Similarly, Port of Oakland executive director Danny Wan said that “labor peace is a commitment to continue delivering the most efficient, cost-effective, and environmentally-sustainable cargo operations in the country.” He went on to thank Julie Su for her “key role in the negotiations”.
According to the Port of Long Beach (POLB), the contract agreement will have a hugely beneficial impact to the US economy, which depends on ports and trade. “We know the contract will pave the way for the San Pedro Bay ports complex to keep providing the top-notch service shippers have come to rely upon,” noted POLB in a statement.
Additionally, the National Retail Federation (NRF), which earlier this month called on the Biden administration to intervene in the labor negotiations, has also welcomed the agreement.
“On behalf of the retail industry, we are relieved to see the parties have come to a tentative mutual agreement on a long-term contract for labor operations at the West Coast ports, ending over a year of negotiations and uncertainty. A new agreement provides stability to the supply chain and assurance to the millions of businesses and employees who rely on smooth and efficient operations from the West Coast ports,” commented President and CEO Matthew Shay.
He went on to add, “The West Coast ports are a critical artery for retailers and other businesses into the US market. We urge the parties to quickly ratify the tentative agreement to bring certainty back to the West Coast ports. It is essential to begin the negotiation process early for the next labor contract and avoid a future lapse in continuity.”
