Inderjit Arora

Only 80 days left before the end of our current contract, as highlighted by ILA President Daggett. The cancellation of scheduled negotiations with USMX in early June was a result of violations of our current Master Contract by some members. The threat of a strike on October 1st at Atlantic and Gulf Coast ports is on the horizon. #ContractCountdown #ILANegotiations #USMXContract #PortStrikeAlert #LaborDispute2024

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Earlier this year, the Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) announced the publication of its final Demurrage and Detention Billing Requirements rule. This rule represents the ongoing impacts of the Ocean Shipping Reform Act of 2022 (OSRA 22) and its goal of promoting supply chain fluidity. Join us as we discuss strategies for implementing the OSRA 2022 final ruling specific to the invoicing of demurrage & detention from ocean carriers. Effective May 28, 2024, this final ruling addresses steamship line invoicing requirements and the timing associated with the receipt, dispute, and resolution of D&D invoice disputes. https://hubs.li/Q02xMt6v0

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Day 179 of the Red Sea crisis – and other news One attack drone was shot down by the US military. Other than that, no new attacks were reported. The port workers’ union ILA on the US East Coast cancelled planned labor talks this week, increasing concern over potential labor disruptions later this year. The union really went all-out on their anti-automation stance. ILA write that they had discovered APM Terminals was using an automated gate system in Mobile, Alabama which processes trucks without ILA labor. In the words of ILA:”Here we go again” [....]we will not tolerate it any longer”. On the topic of APMT using automation the ILA went on to say:”The ILA lost tens of thousands of jobs to containerization in the 1970s due to containerization and APM and Maersk seem to be leading the charge to eliminate good family-sustaining jobs right here in the US”. Their statement then included the following which leader Harold Daggett told his members in 2023: “Who the hell is a foreign company like Maersk, to come to American soil and build fully automated terminals” You can read the full statement in the link below. This is the same union leader who more than a decade ago also stated that the E-Z Pass should never have been introduced on toll roads as it eliminated the union jobs for people sitting in toll booths. It is very clear that the ILA are modern-day luddites. For those who are now confused, the luddites were a labor movement in England in the 19th century where workers opposed automation in the textile industry as the machines eliminated some of their jobs. It should also be noted that particularly the port workers in the US were opposed to containerization in the 1970s as it eliminated jobs related to carrying cargo on and off the ships. For a brief while there was a rule in New York that if you came to the port with a loaded container to go on the ship, union workers had to take the cargo out of the container and load it into a different container before it could go on the ship. Fighting the new concept of containerization to preserve union jobs. I guess that at least they couldn’t blaim “foreign” companies for the evils of the container as that was clearly invented in the US. The newest global Container Port Performance from S&P Global Market Intelligence Index which came out last week showed that US container ports was performing poorly with no US ports in the top-50 globally in relation to efficiency. Hence here we are. The union wants to keep port infrastructure at the level it was at in the past century while the rest of the world barges ahead in the 21st century. Of course, the US and its citizens can choose any course of action they find best for their own nation. But having low-efficiency port infrastructure carries with it a logistical cost, and blaiming foreign carriers for what is in essence another home-grown addition to inflation is quite illogical. https://shorturl.at/1Txxq

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Possibility of Dockworkers Strike Odds are increasing for a dockworkers' strike at East and Gulf Coast ports. Contract negotiations between the International Longshoremen's Assn. and the US Maritime Alliance, which represents port operators, broke down months ago, with no new talks scheduled. The current contract expires Sept. 30th. The dockworkers are ready to strike Oct. 1, absent a new deal, the union is warning, affecting ports from Maine to Texas. West Coast ports won't be affected. A key dispute is the use of automated technology used to process trucks at some ports, which the union argues violates the terms of their current contract. A strike would be the first in decades. East and Gulf Coast port workers last went on strike in 1977. But the rise of automated systems is fueling angst among dockworkers who fear that it will be used as a replacement for human labor. Look for the Biden administration to step in to help broker a deal if talks stall, as it did last year during the West Coast dockworkers' contract dispute. Kiplinger

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📢 USMX Files Unfair Labor Practice Charge with NLRB Over ILA Negotiations 🚨 As the deadline for the U.S. East Coast and Gulf Coast port labor contract approaches, the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) has filed an Unfair Labor Practice (ULP) charge with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) against the International Longshoremen's Association (ILA). This action was taken due to the ILA's refusal to continue bargaining on a new Master Contract. USMX is requesting immediate injunctive relief to bring the union back to the negotiating table. What does this mean for the industry? ⚠️ Potential further delays in negotiations ⚠️ Increased uncertainty about a possible port strike starting October 1, 2024 ⚠️ Ongoing disruption risks to U.S. East & Gulf Coast ports Stay updated and be prepared for possible port disruptions. Now is the time to review your logistics strategies and consider alternative options. Feel free to reach out! Bethany 🌎 Gabbett Read the full statement here: 👉 USMX ILA Negotiation Updates - https://lnkd.in/e6EAu49H #SupplyChain #Logistics #Shipping #PortStrike #SouthernStarNavigation #USMX #ILA

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CV International and Capes Shipping Agencies had a fantastic experience yesterday at The Port of Virginia's 2024 State of the Port with customers, industry partners, and colleagues in Virginia Beach! Big things have been happening at the port, including the expansion of its channel to accommodate the significant growth it's seen in recent years. The waterway has been dredged to 55 feet, deep enough to accommodate Ultra-Large Container Vessels, and the widening of the channel will allow two of these behemoths to pass through at once. The addition of new berths and cranes at the terminals, all powered by 100% clean energy, will help improve turn times even further. These improvements are a game-changer for the Commonwealth of Virginia and the companies that do business there. At CVI and Capes Shipping, we have decades of experience with The Port of Virginia, and we look forward to helping our customers capitalize on these long-awaited improvements. #PortOfVirginia #StateOfThePort #SOTP24 #MaritimeIndustry

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"Participants’ input on the RFI for commercial port operators will assist with developing an effective testbed DHS can leverage to reduce vulnerabilities in ports across the U. S., evaluate the effectiveness of current protections or mitigations, and harden the maritime port infrastructure against cyber intrusions and disruptions." https://lnkd.in/gFCaCABa #portsecurity #maritimesecurity #cybersecurity #dhs #criticalinfrastructure #industrialcyber #icssecurity #ics

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Vision always keeps a close eye on potential supply chain disruptors and we may have one looming right now. Longshoremen and port operators from eastern Canada down through the US east coast and into the ports on the US gulf coast appear to be at an impasse on contract negotiations. Talk of strikes is in the air just as we've seen with similar labor disputes in Europe and Australia. The US International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) is planning strike strategies for East and Gulf coast ports, while Canada's ILWU Local 514 has received a strike mandate for DP World's west coast operations. The US Maritime Alliance (USMX) that represents the port operators reports stalled negotiations with the ILA for a new Master Contract, despite ongoing preparations for future talks and calls from some quarters for mediation. A strike could throw a monkey wrench into consumer prices as well as to our recovering but still somewhat battered supply chain. With the US presidential election less than 60 days away, this is a headache that no one needs. #supplychain #globallogistics #logistics #labordisputes https://lnkd.in/e3xnMyBA

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The reduction of over 50% in grant money allocated to small shipyards this year from last is the complete opposite direction of what our U.S. shipyards need to continue to compete and meet the growing trends & technological advances of the U.S. maritime industry, even in the smaller serving yards.

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The International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) has striked following the failure to reach an agreement with USMX. This strike is currently impacting operations at several ports along the East and Gulf Coasts, from Maine to Texas. We anticipate that this strike will lead to substantial challenges for the industry, including widespread delays. If the strike extends for a week, recovery may take an additional four to six weeks. In addition, the Southeast U.S. is facing ongoing flooding and power outages from Hurricane Helene, leading to further delays and increased congestion at ports. The situation is further complicated by the Port of Montreal, which has commenced a three-day strike today, limiting options for U.S. importers and exporters. While the duration of the port strike remains uncertain, here are some proactive steps you can take now: - Assess External Factors: Evaluate how various events, such as weather disruptions and port closures, could impact your supply chain. - Identify Key Freight: It’s crucial to pinpoint your priority shipments, especially for industries like automotive that rely on lean inventory. Air freight may be necessary to maintain momentum. - Prioritize Actions: Determine what needs immediate attention and what can be postponed, balancing urgency with cost-effectiveness for priority orders. - Monitor Inventory Locations: Know where your critical inventory is stored and consider moving parts to alternate locations to sustain production during an extended strike. The impact of the strike will depend on its duration, making constant communication and flexible contingency planning essential to navigate these challenges effectively. Radius is committed to keeping you informed throughout this time. Please reach out to your local Radius office for any questions or concerns. 

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𝗠𝗮𝗷𝗼𝗿 𝗜𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗻𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝗮𝗹 𝗣𝗼𝗿𝘁 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗿𝘂𝗽𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘂𝗽? - United States Maritime Alliance Ltd (USMX) and International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) are at loggerheads for the wage contract revision. - US economy is looking at a 𝙧𝙞𝙨𝙠 𝙤𝙛 𝙡𝙤𝙨𝙨 𝙤𝙛 𝙐𝙎$ 4.5 - 7.5 𝘽𝙣. / 𝙒𝙚𝙚𝙠 - mostly from fresh produce items and daily staples. 𝗨𝗦 𝗴𝗲𝘁𝘀 𝟮/𝟯 𝗯𝗮𝗻𝗮𝗻𝗮𝘀 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗲𝗮𝘀𝘁 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗴𝘂𝗹𝗳 𝗽𝗼𝗿𝘁𝘀 𝗱𝗮𝗶𝗹𝘆. - ILA represents ~36,000 𝙡𝙤𝙣𝙜𝙨𝙝𝙤𝙧𝙚𝙢𝙚𝙣 𝙖𝙘𝙧𝙤𝙨𝙨 36 𝙢𝙖𝙟𝙤𝙧 𝙥𝙤𝙧𝙩𝙨 along east and gulf of the USA. - The starting wage as per the last agreement is US$ 20/hr for a new employee straight-time basic wage, for an employee who has completed 6 years, this is currently at US$ 39/hr. - With an average of ~US$ 25/hr this translates to ~US$ 48,000/Year. - Be ready to expect a major port congestion issue if ILA walks out and the domino thereof on the entire port ecosystem - higher transit times, escalations in freight rates and hurdle to revenue for exporters. - Visibility will remain a key at the organisational level to be ready with the plans and mitigations to reduce the impact and prepare for quick time-to-recover. - Considering the elections in the USA, probability of Biden administration invoking Taft-Hartely Act with 80 days cooling-off period is low given Biden has embraced the organised labor himself. Follow FreightFox for the updates and reach out to explore how #visibility can mitigate this #supplychain #risk #ports #disruption

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Global Shipping Update: Container shipping received some welcome news this week as the port of Baltimore opened its main shipping channel. Port operations have been at a near standstill since the collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge, which was struck by the container ship Dali. Authorities removed the stricken vessel and cleared debris from the main shipping channel. With the main shipping channel open, normal port operations can resume and large container vessels can again use the port. It will take the port a few months to reach the same capacity levels as before the crash, but officials are hopeful business will make a swift return. Below is a list of just some key shipping lanes and service possibility. #Logistics #Relocation #PortofBaltimore #ContainerShip #Shipping

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♦️ Federal Maritime Commission Investigates Chassis Provisioning Compliance   The Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) has launched an investigation to determine if the Ocean Carrier Equipment Management Association (OCEMA) and its members are adhering to a recent decision that mandates shipper and trucker choice in chassis provisioning for merchant haulage in key U.S. markets. This press release by the FMC highlights concerns over compliance in several U.S. ports, following a cease-and-desist order issued earlier this year.   At John S. James Co., we understand the complexities of freight forwarding and customs brokerage, especially in light of regulatory changes like this one. Whether you need to import a single tractor into the United States or export thousands of microchips, we treat all our clients with the same level of dedication and expertise. Our clients have direct access to our highly skilled team, ensuring seamless navigation through these challenges. Trust John S. James Co. for all your freight forwarding and customs brokerage needs.   Visit johnsjames.com to learn more about how we can support your logistics and compliance needs.   #FederalMaritimeCommission #ChassisProvisioning #OCEMA #FreightForwarding #CustomsBrokerage #Logistics #LosAngeles #LongBeach #Chicago #Memphis #Savannah #JohnSJamesCo

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"Anatomy of a Shipment: Introduction to Export and Import Sales and Shipping" -- View Leonard Fleisig recorded presentation for a new course at Old Dominion University's School of #SupplyChain, #Logistics, and Maritime Operations. Len, a Member of the Maritime and #InternationalTrade Practice Group, gives a detailed, introductory view of how goods are bought, sold, and transported in global trade. "Maritime Leadership, Technology, and Society" is a new asynchronous course led by instructor, and program AVP, Elspeth McMahon. https://lnkd.in/eAPF5Acg #ImportExport #ContainerShipping #SuppltChain

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Topic of the Week (6/14/24): Let's break down the Gemini Cooperation Agreement that was JUST filed with the FMC... The Maritime Professorᵀᴹ presents By Land and By Sea - an attorney breaking down the week in supply chain with Lauren Beagen (Founder of The Maritime Professorᵀᴹ and Squall Strategiesᵀᴹ) Let's dive in... 1 - Federal Maritime Commission Maritime Transportation Data Initiative (MTDI) Request for Information (RFI) #2 is due today. https://lnkd.in/ggMk3KhW 2 - INTERNATIONAL LONGSHOREMENS ASSOCIATION (ILA) and UNITED STATES MARITIME ALLIANCE LIMITED (USMX) have suspended negotiations. The ILA released a statement with some fiery language. JOC coverage: https://lnkd.in/gBxtcFr5 3 - United States Trade Representative Section 301 Investigations: 🔹steelworkers petition proposing a US port call fee on Chinese built ships 🔹4-yr review of China tariffs proposes adding 25% tariff on ship to shore cranes to go into effect Aug 1 ------------------------------- The Maritime Professorᵀᴹ is an e-learning/educational based company on all things maritime and supply chain - we provide employee trainings, e-content/e-courses, general trainings/webinars, and executive recruiting. Make sure to sign up for the email list so that you will be alerted to when the e-learning content is available, but also, being on the email list will give you exclusive access to promo/discount codes! Sign up for our email list at https://lnkd.in/eqfZJShQ Look for our podcast episodes - NOW AVAILABLE: https://lnkd.in/g4YUbxjs ** As always the guidance here is general and for educational purposes only, it should not be construed to be legal advice and there is no attorney-client privilege created by this video or podcast. If you need an attorney, contact an attorney. ** #ByLandAndBySea

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Get insights into the United States Trade Representative's probe into China's maritime industry. Explore the allegations of unfair practices and dominance in the market. https://lnkd.in/eE9DfXqT #section301 #china #maritime

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The International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) strike that began on October 1, 2024, has resulted in varied impacts across East Coast and Gulf ports. Here’s a current overview of the situation. Key Points: ▪ Operations have come to a standstill at approximately 36 major ports along the U.S. East Coast with minimum impact in US Gulf ports. ▪ Private terminals, especially those handling bulk and liquid cargo, are less impacted. ▪ Public terminals are experiencing more significant disruptions, particularly in container and RORO operations. ▪ The situation remains fluid, with variations in impact across different ports and terminal types. Read the full port advisory: https://lnkd.in/eSEn8Y_q #ILAStrike #PortOperations #SupplyChain #EastCoastPorts #GulfPorts #ShippingNews #MaritimeIndustry #Logistics #ContainerShipping

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