ILA Seeks 80% Wage Increase in US East Coast Ports Contract Negotiations

Aug 7, 2024, 03:45 PM

The International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) is negotiating a new six-year contract with maritime employers on the East and Gulf coasts, seeking an almost 80% wage increase. According to sources familiar with the negotiations, the ILA is proposing a $5-per-hour wage increase each year, which would result in a 76% increase in the top straight-time wage for longshore workers over the contract's term. The potential for a massive strike at US East Coast ports this fall is high if the demands are not met, which could lead to increased freight rates and congestion.