The International Longshore and Warehouse Union delegates last week voted to discuss a contract extension with the Pacific Maritime Association. Pro Farmer reports an extension would spare shippers the prospect of another round of long delays, which were seen at the biggest West Coast ports from mid-2014 to February 2015. The vote is welcome news for agriculture and trade groups, as companies suffered billions of dollars in losses on the recent port slowdowns. The National Pork Producers Council and 112 other trade associations in March sent a letter to the groups urging them to begin early discussions on a contract extension or a new contract “to avoid actions that would slow, stop, or disrupt cargo movement during negotiations.” The existing contract expires on July 1st, 2019.
From the National Association of Farm Broadcasting news service.