The Strike Begins

The strike by over 45,000 dockworkers at East and Gulf Coast ports marks a significant disruption in the United States’ supply chain. This labor action, which commenced on October 1, has far-reaching implications for various sectors, particularly the animal food industry. * The strike affects the import and export of essential goods, including animal feed ingredients. * The American Feed Industry Association (AFIA) has issued warnings about the potential long-term economic consequences.

The industry is grappling with a significant shortage of raw materials, which has led to a sharp increase in production costs and a decrease in available products. ## The Impact of Raw Material Shortages – Increased Production Costs: The scarcity of raw materials has led to a surge in prices, making it more expensive for manufacturers to produce animal food products.

The AFIA has been advocating for a resolution to the labor disputes at the Port of Long Beach and Port of Los Angeles, which have been causing significant delays in the transportation of these critical agricultural commodities. ## The Impact of Port Labor Disputes on Agriculture The American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) has highlighted the significant role that waterborne transportation plays in the agricultural sector. In 2023, grains, animal feed, and hay accounted for more than 70% of the food transported via waterways.

The Impending Animal Welfare Crisis

The American Feed Industry Association (AFIA) has raised concerns about the potential animal welfare crisis that could arise from prolonged port closures. These closures, often due to unforeseen circumstances such as natural disasters or global pandemics, can disrupt the supply chain of essential ingredients required for animal feed.

The Backbone of U.S. Agriculture: AFIA’s Role

The American Feed Industry Association (AFIA) plays a pivotal role in the U.S. agricultural sector. Its members are responsible for manufacturing a significant portion of the nation’s feed and non-whole grain ingredients. Here’s a closer look at their contribution:

• Over 75% of the feed produced in the U.S.
  

  The Call for Fairness in USMX’s Offer

  President Joe Biden has taken a firm stance on the issue of fairness in the offer presented by the United States Maritime Xpress (USMX) to workers at the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA). In a recent address, Biden emphasized the need for a just and equitable proposal that truly reflects the value and contributions of the maritime workforce.