WASHINGTON -- The U.S. economy faces potential disruptions as dockworkers from Maine to Texas launched a strike, halting operations at key ports handling over half of the nation's imports and exports. Members of the International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) initiated the walkout after negotiations with the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) over wages collapsed. The union, which represents 45,000 workers, rejected a 50% wage increase offer over six years, holding firm on their demand for a 77% increase. The strike affects the flow of essential goods such as food, vehicles, machinery, and construction materials through some of the busiest gateways of the U.S. economy.

While large retailers claim they can manage a brief halt, they warn that an extended strike could trigger price hikes and product shortages. The Retail Industry Leaders Association, which includes major brands such as Home Depot and Gap, emphasized that consumers are likely to see prices rise if the strike continues for more than a week.

IKEA, one of the major retailers impacted by the strike, has been moving its shipments out of the Port of New York and New Jersey in anticipation. Susanne Waidzunas, global supply manager at Inter IKEA Holding, told the WSJ that IKEA learned valuable lessons during the pandemic. However, she added, "Depending on how long the strike continues, it might have an impact on a larger scale."

Increased competition for shipping capacity at alternative ports is also driving up freight rates. Experts warn that a strike lasting even one week could exacerbate delays and push freight prices higher, affecting everything from consumer goods to vehicles. Shipping rates have already skyrocketed in the past weeks, with container fees reaching up to $30,000, five times the amount from just a few months ago. Economic analysts estimate that the strike could cost the U.S. economy around $5 billion per day.