It has been confirmed yesterday that ILWU, which represents over 22,000 employees at 29 US west coast ports, and the Pacific Maritime Association (PMA) have reached a new 6-year labor contract agreement.

The contract agreement has been welcomed after negotiations first began in May 2022, involving numerous port disputes and closures.

The new contract will expire on July 1, 2028 and has put an end to fears of potential strike action that could significantly impact US supply chains.

Having been approved by PMA member companies, including Maersk, CMA CGM, MSC, and ONE, the new agreement is hoped to reassure shippers worldwide as to the West Coast ports’ position as destinations of choice and primary gateways for cargo coming into and leaving the United States.

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