Several Florida ports are facing potential disruptions due to a strike by the International Longshoremen’s Association, which could delay containerized cargo operations while cruise activities remain unaffected.
Several Florida ports are facing potential disruptions as members of the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) began a strike early Tuesday after negotiations with the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) failed to produce a new labor agreement.
The strike, affecting East and Gulf Coast ports, is expected to impact containerized cargo operations at Florida ports including PortMiami, JAXPORT, and Port Everglades.
PortMiami officials have implemented measures to maintain operations, designating areas for ILA members to picket without impeding access to the port. Cruise operations are expected to continue without interruption, but containerized cargo shipments may be delayed depending on the duration of the work stoppage.
“PortMiami is readying the seaport and its operations in anticipation of the International Longshoremen’s Associate (ILA) work stoppage at all US East and Gulf Coast ports,” PortMiami said in a statement. “PortMiami is working to ensure continued safe and secure operations for all port users.”
At JAXPORT, officials anticipate the strike could affect up to one-third of its business, primarily international container volumes. The port’s gates and administrative functions will remain open, as none of its direct employees are members of the ILA. However, terminal operators who employ ILA labor are expected to experience delays, and customers have been advised to contact operators directly for updates on service disruptions.
“The remaining two-thirds of JAXPORT’s business, including the majority of Puerto Rico cargo, will continue normally. In addition, none of JAXPORT’s 172 direct employees are ILA members, so all workers directly employed by JAXPORT will continue to work, which means all JAXPORT main gates and administrative functions will remain open regular operating hours,” JAXPORT said on Tuesday morning.
Port Everglades, meanwhile, expects minimal impact from the strike, with most operations, including petroleum and cruise activities, continuing as scheduled. The port has established specific zones for peaceful demonstrations outside security areas to prevent disruptions to ongoing operations.
“We hope there will be a quick resolution, and all containerized cargo operations can return to business as usual,” said Joseph Morris, CEO and Port Director of Port Everglades.
Negotiations between the ILA and USMX stalled over wage increases and concerns about automation in port operations. No further talks have been scheduled, and it remains unclear how long the work stoppage may last.