A looming dockworker strike could soon lead to shortages of popular fruits, including bananas, at US grocery stores, FOX Business reports.
The International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA), representing 45,000 dockworkers, has warned that workers at dozens of ports along the East and Gulf coasts may strike if a new contract is not agreed upon by October 1.
These ports handle around half of the country’s seaborne imports, including about two-thirds of the bananas consumed in the US, which is the top fruit by consumption per capita. Major distribution hubs like Delaware’s Port Wilmington, key for fruit companies such as Dole and Chiquita, could be severely affected. The port is critical for unloading not only bananas but also other imported fruits such as grapes, pears, and kiwifruit.
Industry experts have cautioned that the strike could lead to empty fruit aisles, price hikes, and massive losses due to spoilage.
“Any fruit that arrives after Oct. 1 will be condemned to the trash can,” said Peter Kopke Sr., a produce importer.
The ILA is pushing for an 80% pay raise over six years and stronger protections against automation. A weeklong work stoppage could cost the US economy an estimated $7.5 billion.
