The Pacific Maritime Association (PMA) issued a statement today regarding the status of contract negotiations with the International Longshore & Warehouse Union (ILWU), stating parties are still far from reaching a deal.
“Statements and rumors that our negotiations are ‘close’ to a final contract are not true,” PMA said. “Even after seven months of negotiations, we remain far apart on several issues, and the union slowdowns continue to disrupt the movement of cargo through the ports.”
“Business is being lost, and we are concerned that the damage is permanent and shippers will be fearful to put their trust in the West Coast ports going forward.”