Contract talks between the International Longshore and Warehouse Union and Pacific Maritime Association have concluded with a tentative deal after more than a year of negotiations.
The prolonged talks left stakeholders worried about wide-scale disruption as negotiations prolonged and exposed tensions. The fear of a strike or lockout at West Coast ports only grew over the past two weeks, as a lack of labor in terminals led to multiple gate closures and slowdowns in June.
Concerns are vanishing now. Industry leaders, including several trade associations, organizations and ports, were quick to show their relief and support after the tentative deal was announced Wednesday.
Here are some excerpts from notable statements and social media posts.
President Joe Biden
“As I have always said, collective bargaining works, and I congratulate both parties at the ports for reaching an agreement. I want to thank Acting Labor Secretary Julie Su who used her deep experience and judgment to keep the parties talking, working with them to reach an agreement after a long and sometimes acrimonious negotiation.”
“Above all I congratulate the port workers, who have served heroically through the pandemic and the countless challenges it brought, and will finally get the pay, benefits, and quality of life they deserve.”
National Retail Federation President and CEO Matthew Shay
“We are relieved to see the parties have come to a tentative mutual agreement on a long-term contract for labor operations at the West Coast ports, ending over a year of negotiations and uncertainty.”
“We urge the parties to quickly ratify the tentative agreement to bring certainty back to the West Coast ports. It is essential to begin the negotiation process early for the next labor contract and avoid a future lapse in continuity.”
Retail Industry Leaders Association
“It’s encouraging to hear that a tentative agreement has been reached between negotiating parties on the West Coast, not just for retailers, but for every industry that relies on this global commerce gateway.”
“We appreciate the Biden administration and Acting Labor Secretary Su for her engagement, and we encourage a swift ratification and adoption of the agreement to ensure there are no further labor stoppages that impact retailers’ ability to deliver for consumers.”
National Association of Manufacturers President & CEO Jay Timmons
“Manufacturers welcome last night's announcement of a long-term deal between the #ILWU and #PMA. Certainty at America's West Coast ports ensures reliability in domestic shipping lanes and keeps manufacturing in America competitive and thriving.”
U.S. Meat Export Federation President and CEO Dan Halstrom
“Today is a monumental day for U.S. West Coast seaports. Labor peace is a commitment to continue delivering the most efficient, cost effective, and environmentally-sustainable cargo operations in the country. Asia to the West Coast still remains the most efficient route. We thank Acting Secretary Labor Secretary Julie Su her key role in the negotiations.”
Harbor Trucking Association CEO Matt Schrap
“The #WestCoast is the #BestCoast…
Everything is fine…bring your cargo back.”
Port of Los Angeles Executive Director Gene Seroka
“The tentative agreement between the International Longshore and Warehouse Union and the Pacific Maritime Association brings the stability and confidence that customers have been seeking.”
“We look forward to collaborating with our partners in a renewed effort to bring back cargo and demonstrate why Los Angeles is the first choice for Trans-Pacific trade.”
Port of Oakland Executive Director Danny Wan
“Today is a monumental day for U.S. West Coast seaports. Labor peace is a commitment to continue delivering the most efficient, cost effective, and environmentally-sustainable cargo operations in the country. Asia to the West Coast still remains the most efficient route. We thank Acting Secretary Labor Secretary Julie Su her key role in the negotiations.”
Port of Long Beach Deputy Executive Director Noel Hacegaba
“This is welcomed news by the Port of Long Beach and all West Coast ports, the ILWU workforce and the many customers we serve. This announcement comes just as container volumes are trending up in San Pedro Bay. Let’s keep this momentum going!”
