The International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) have reached a tentative six-year contract agreement for East and Gulf Coast port workers, pending ratification. Details of the deal are confidential to allow for member review. Key negotiations addressed automation concerns, aiming to protect existing jobs while introducing modern technologies to enhance safety and efficiency. This agreement follows nearly eight months of negotiations and avoids a potential strike scheduled for January 15, which would have disrupted shipping operations.

Source: https://www.supplychaindive.com/news/ila-usmx-reach-tentative-deal-6-year-contract/736876/