Oakland Strike a Reminder that Negotiations Ongoing for US West Coast Ports

On Nov 2, several terminals at the Port of Oakland were shut down because of unexpected labour action. Rather than a union-wide effort, this job action was taken from the local chapter of ILWU Local 34 and targeted the terminals that move goods internationally.

These ad-hoc work stoppages and slowdowns have hit all West Coast ports since the contract between ILWU and the Pacific Maritime Association (PMA) expired on July 1. Some exporters and importers say they can no longer tolerate the work slowdowns at West Coast ports, and are shifting cargo to East and Gulf coasts.  

Sources:
1) 3 Port of Oakland terminals reopen following union walkout, Supply Chain Dive, Nov 3, 2022. Accessed Nov 14, 2022.
2) Oakland port disruption underpins support for West Coast cargo shift, Journal of Commerce, Nov 2, 2022. Accessed Nov 14, 2022.