WASHINGTON, D.C. (RFD-TV) — A potential strike at the ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach has meat shippers on high alert.
Dan Halstrom with the U.S. Meat Export Federation says slowdowns at either port could have consequences throughout the shipping sector.
“The reason for this is that vessels that exporters are relying on to take red meat shipments to Asia and to other key markets around the world call the Port of Oakland after they have come through Los Angeles or Long Beach. So, when operations in L.A. or Long Beach are slowed or suspended, these vessels can’t reach Oakland on schedule, and that’s a huge concern for our exporters. The vast majority of our chilled production, beef and pork, passes through the Port of Oakland. While it’s important for frozen product as well, obviously from a shelf-life standpoint around chilled beef and pork, it’s paramount that we get this situation resolved soon.”
The union’s deadline expired Sunday, but the latest reports indicate both sides have extended negotiations through Wednesday.
