For the first time in nearly 50 years, port workers on the East and Gulf Coasts of the U.S. have gone on strike, sparking concerns about its impact on trade and the economy. The strike began after negotiations between the International Longshoremen’s Association and port authorities failed to reach an agreement on wage increases and the integration of new technology into port operations.
Experts warn that if the strike extends for weeks, it could lead to severe disruptions in trade, higher prices for consumers, and potential layoffs in industries reliant on imports. For now, the effects are expected to be manageable, but the long-term consequences of a prolonged strike could be significant.