The Port of New York and New Jersey is bracing for a potential work stoppage by unionized dockworkers, which could trigger a significant supply chain crisis similar to the disruptions experienced during the COVID pandemic.

The International Longshoremen’s Association, representing 85,000 workers at 36 ports, threatens to strike if a new contract isn’t reached by the September 30 deadline.

Port operations are being adjusted to prevent cargo backlogs, with some ocean carriers planning to embargo export shipments.

A strike could severely impact the economy, as the East and Gulf Coasts handle nearly half of U.S. imports. Delays are expected, with experts estimating a backlog of four to six days for every day of a strike, the New York Post has reported.

While the union demands higher wages and bans on automation, the ports are committed to resuming negotiations to avert the first national longshoremen’s strike since 1977.

Written by B.C. Begley