As the one-year anniversary of West Coast port contract expiration nears, and as the U.S. approaches peak shipping for the critical back-to-school and holiday shopping seasons, the American Apparel & Footwear Association is emphasizing the critical importance of avoiding work stoppages at our nation's busiest ports.

"Labor negotiations between the International Longshore and Warehouse Union and the Pacific Maritime Association have dragged on for more than 11 months since the last agreement expired. Despite alignment on some elements of the contracts, there appears to be stalled progress towards a new long-term agreement. Any port closure creates backups that immediately impact the delivery of goods to stores and warehouses, which will adversely impact American consumers, workers, and businesses," said AAFA president and CEO Steve Lamar.

"We applaud engagement from the former Secretary of Labor Marty Walsh through the negotiations earlier in this process. Avoiding any further supply chain crisis is crucial to avoid prevent damage to our economy. It is time for the Biden Administration to accelerate efforts to keep all parties at the table for speedy and fair resolution, enabling our supply chains to operate efficiently and responsibly.”

Earlier this spring, AAFA signed this March 24 letter to President Biden requesting engagement towards this essential contract agreement.