The logistics industry is facing significant disruptions as dockworkers have begun strikes at ports along the US East and Gulf coasts. With no resolution in sight, the strikes are affecting supply chains across the US and globally, with no clear resolution in sight.

Dockworkers are seeking higher wages and assurances that they won’t be replaced by automation.

Ocean supply chains have already been hit hard this year by conflict in the Red Sea, a lengthy drought affecting the Panama Canal, and the Baltimore Bridge collapse. Major port operators have extended hours and implemented special measures to reduce cargo losses, particularly for refrigerated shipments. Ocean carriers have introduced surcharges on shipments to East Coast ports. However, the strikes are expected to cause inevitable disruptions.

The ongoing US East Coast port strikes are threatening to disrupt holiday supply chains as retailers prepare for the busy Christmas season. With the festive period fast approaching, smooth logistics are critical for keeping shelves stocked with toys, electronics, and other high-demand products.

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Increasing peak season demand, combined with holiday-related e-commerce pressure, will strain air freight capacity even further, worsening supply chain bottlenecks.

As shipping costs rise and goods become scarcer, popular Christmas gifts could see price hikes, and e-commerce orders might experience even longer delays, frustrating consumers. Retailers that rely on just-in-time delivery systems are especially vulnerable and risk missing out on key sales during the crucial weeks leading up to Christmas.

Air cargo rates, already elevated due to e-commerce demand, will face even more pressure during the holiday season as peak demand grows in October. The strike’s duration is crucial. A short strike may create a backlog, but a prolonged disruption could have severe consequences. Some companies may turn to air freight, but high costs and limited capacity make it a last resort.

The latest figures from the Statistical Institute of Belize show that Belize’s total imports of goods were valued at $219.2 million in August. This is a significant decrease of 20.2%, or $55.6 million, compared to August 2023, when imports totalled $274.8 million. Imports fell across nearly all commodity categories, with the exception of ‘Oils and Fats.’ Notable declines were seen in ‘Mineral Fuels & Lubricants,’ ‘Commercial Free Zones,’ and ‘Machinery and Transport Equipment.’

This is the first strike by the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) in nearly 50 years, affecting ships carrying billions of dollars worth of cargo. Recent supply chain shocks have made businesses more prepared for such disruptions, likely taking precautionary measures ahead of time, as the possibility of a strike had been anticipated for months.