West Coast Port Update: ILWU Approves New Contract

September 1, 2023 | Members of the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) have voted to ratify the tentative contract agreement reached in June with employers represented by the Pacific Maritime Association (PMA). The Toy Association has been closely monitoring the situation and urged the Biden Administration to intervene for both sides to come to a quick resolution.

The dockworkers, representing more than 22,000 workers at all 29 West Coast ports, voted 75 percent in favor of approving the new 6-year agreement that will expire on July 1, 2028.

The new agreement includes updates to health benefits and improvements to wages, pensions, and safety protections, according to the ILWU.

"This contract provides an important framework for the hard work ahead to overcome new competitive challenges and to continue to position the West Coast ports as destinations of choice for shippers worldwide," said PMA President and CEO Jim McKenna "From San Diego to Bellingham, these ports have long been the primary gateways for cargo coming into and leaving the U.S., and our interests are aligned in ensuring they can effectively and efficiently handle the capacity growth that drives economies and jobs."

The Toy Association remains engaged on these issues and will continue to provide updates on any significant developments impacting supply chain issues for members.