West Coast Ports Congestion Continues to Wreak Havoc on Industry.  NAMI has expressed continued concern regarding the ongoing labor dispute between the Pacific Maritime Association (PMA) and the International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU), which has had crippling effects on the entire meat and poultry industry. which is costing meat and poultry companies in excess of $30 million per week in lost revenue.

Last week, the PMA released a statement calling for a return to normal operations on the docks as the PMA works to negotiate a new contract, and underscores the economic and reputation damage caused by the current congestion.

"Nearly three months ago, the ILWU began a coordinated series of slowdowns intended to pressure employers to make concessions at the bargaining table," the statement said.  The statement also suggested that the ILWU is withholding the skilled workers necessary to clear the crowded terminals.

Congestion at the Port of Oakland would take at least 45 days to clear once a resolution is reached, and the short shelf life of chilled beef and pork exacerbates the already negative economic impact on meat and poultry companies.  Starting next week, some packers are expected to cut hours and shifts, if a resolution is not reached.