West Coast (ILWU/PMA) Negotiations Update by Port:

Vancouver:

Negotiations are underway between the British Colombia Maritime Employers Association (BCMEA) and International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) in Vancouver. ILWU is seeking authorization for a strike vote before the cooling-off period ends on June 21. While both parties have the right to strike or lockout, no notice will be given before June 21. The earliest possible date for a strike or lockout is June 24. Meetings will continue with the assistance of Federal Mediation and Conciliation Service (FMCS). Note that there have been no disruptions at Vancouver or Prince Rupert, which offer access to U.S. destinations via rail.

East and Gulf Coast:

Operations continue as normal at U.S. East Coast and Gulf ports.

LA/LB:

Labor disruptions in Southern California’s ports are causing significant delays for container ships carrying import cargoes. A shortage of longshoremen, known as “lashers”, has led to schedule setbacks of one to two days for most vessels. Due to labor shortages, some West Coast terminals closed last week, causing intermittent disruptions at the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach. Currently, eight container ships are backed up, with up to thirty-one more facing delays of one to two days. Efforts are underway to implement protocols, including a queuing system, to address the situation. The White House encourages continued negotiations to resolve the issue.

Oakland:

Oakland has successfully regained its normal operating levels, following a week of disruptions.

Seattle:

Seattle is currently facing a notable deceleration in its ocean operations, resulting in vessels being unable to fully accomplish their assigned tasks. However, it is worth mentioning that yard, gate, and rail operations in the region continue to operate smoothly and in accordance with the established norms. The ongoing slowdown in ocean operations has caused disruptions and hindered the timely completion of work for the vessels operating in the area. The local authorities and relevant stakeholders are actively monitoring the situation and working towards resolving the slowdown to restore optimal functioning of the ocean operations in Seattle.

Noatum will continue to monitor this situation as it develops and release updates as received.

If you have any questions, please contact your local Noatum Logistics representative.