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Following the failure of the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) and International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) to reach a compromise, more than 45,000 dockworkers at East and Gulf Coast ports began their strike on October 1.
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), “The Administration is taking action to monitor and address potential impacts on consumers due to labor disputes at East Coast and Gulf Coast ports. Our analysis shows we should not expect significant changes to food prices or availability in the near term. Thanks to the typically smooth movement through the ports of goods, and our strong domestic agricultural production, we do not expect shortages anytime in the near future for most items. Likewise, non-containerized bulk export shipments, including grains, would be unaffected by this strike. For meat and poultry items that are exported through East and Gulf Coast ports, available storage space and re-direction of products to alternative domestic and international markets can alleviate some of the pressure on farmers and food processors. We are keeping an eye on downstream impacts in the west, and we will continue to monitor and work with industry to respond to potential impacts...”
The American Feed Industry Association (AFIA) warns of long-term economic repercussions, potential animal feed supply issues, and escalating costs for farmers. Should the strikes be prolonged, delays in receiving essential ingredients, such as vitamins, minerals, amino acids and micronutrients, will jeopardize animal health and drive-up costs for farmers. Almost 100% of vitamins are imported, showing that even brief delays in shipments could significantly affect livestock health.
October 1, 2024/ USDA and American Feed Industry Association/ United States.
https://www.usda.gov
https://www.afia.org
