East & Gulf Coast Dockworkers Suspend Strike Until January 15

October 4, 2024 | On October 3, the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) reached a temporary agreement to allow operations at the ports to continue while both parties work toward a more permanent contract resolution.

ILA workers went on strike on October 1 after the contract between the union and USMX expired. Both parties reached a tentative agreement over wages and have extended their contract through January 15, when they will return to the bargaining table and negotiate all outstanding issues.

“The tentative agreement between the ILA and USMX is a positive step forward in ensuring that ports remain operational and supply chain disruptions are minimized during the critical holiday shopping season,” said Greg Ahearn, president & CEO of The Toy Association. “While we remain hopeful for a permanent resolution, the extension through January provides much-needed stability for countless consumer product industries and the U.S. economy.”

On October 2, The Toy Association joined a coalition of nearly 300 associations in sending a letter to President Biden calling on him to use “any and all authority” to end the strike.

The Toy Association will continue to keep members updated with any developments.