ILA, port operators reach tentative deal to avoid strike

The International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) has struck a tentative agreement with a group of ocean carriers and port operators to avoid a potential strike.

The ILA and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX), which represents East and Gulf Coast operators, announced late Wednesday a new six-year master contract. Full details are not being released until members of both groups can ratify the final agreement. Until then, both sides will continue to operate under the current contract.