Two of the most important ports in the USA have been crippled. As a result of the insufficient number of dock workers coming to work, according to what was announced by a representative of the shipping companies.
The dockers' union organized what it said were "coordinated measures to prevent work" at the two sites, according to a statement from the Pacific Maritime Association, which represents freight carriers.
It comes as part of a long-running dispute between the dockers' union and freight carriers over wages and information automation.
According to the union's statement, this "led to the effective closure of the Port of Los Angeles and the Port of Long Beach, the largest gateway to maritime trade in the United States." The Shipping Association warned, "These measures undermine confidence in West Coast ports" of the United States.
For its part, the dockers' union explained that its members who were absent from work were celebrating Good Friday with their families.
The union confirmed, "Shipping operations are underway, while dock workers continue to work."
It is noteworthy that the two ports, known as the “San Pedro Bay Complex,” transport about 20 million shipping containers annually, with a value of more than $300 billion.
The complex is the ninth largest port in the world in terms of market share, according to official figures. It plays a major role in the movement of global supply chains.
Okaz (New York) @Okaz_online
