MIAMI – Hundreds of workers at PortMiami could go on strike by the end of Monday if contract negotiations between the International Longshoremen’s Association and management are not completed.
The potential strike threatens to halt operations at one of the busiest ports in the United States.
“This could have a potentially huge impact,” said David Andolfatto, chair of the Department of Economics at the University of Miami. “For Americans that recall the supply chain disruptions during the COVID pandemic, we are talking about an impact of that level, especially if it’s prolonged.”
At the ILA Union Hall, workers with Transportation Worker Identification Credential cards arrive early each morning, hoping to secure jobs for the day. These workers handle a variety of labor-intensive jobs, from loading and unloading container ships to working with cruise companies and managing storage units, including handling produce.
“We are responsible for the container ships coming in, loading and unloading them, and shipping to various countries,” said Eugene Dixon, president of ILA Local 1416.
The union is pushing for higher wages and stronger protections against automation, which could replace jobs. Dixon said the union is prepared to strike at 12:01 a.m. if no agreement is reached.
“The economy would shut down,” Dixon added. “Goods shipped from various countries wouldn’t make it to the shed, and that could have a great impact on the economy.”
A strike would affect more than 850 workers at PortMiami, with ripple effects extending to more than 10 other U.S. ports where workers are also threatening to strike.
David Andolfatto warned that export items may pile up in inventory while import prices could rise.
“The inflationary impact is mixed,” Andolfatto said. “Imported goods are likely to become more expensive, but there could be downward pressure on export prices. The effect on consumers will depend on their individual spending habits.”
According to the National Retail Federation, a one-day shutdown at ports can take three to five days to recover from, with prolonged strikes causing even greater disruptions.
Despite the looming threat, some local business owners remain supportive of the workers. Ronnie Melton, who sells açaí bowls to port workers, said he isn’t worried.
“It doesn’t upset me at all. If they go on strike, I support them,” Melton said. “Coming here and being able to see young brothers trying to elevate to the next level, this is where it comes from, that local right there I’ve never seen anything like that.”
The White House has urged both sides to reach a fair agreement. In a statement, a spokesperson said senior officials have been in contact with the United States Maritime Alliance and the ILA, encouraging a deal that reflects the success of the companies involved.
If no agreement is reached by the end of Monday, PortMiami workers could begin their strike as early as Tuesday morning.