Last Updated On: October 17, 2024

US Port Strike Threatens to Disrupt Australian Red Meat Exports

Australian red meat exporters are bracing for potential disruptions as a major strike threatens U.S. East Coast and Gulf of Mexico ports.

Waterside workers from the International Longshoreman’s Union (ILU) are prepared to strike on October 1, following months of stalled wage negotiations, a move that could paralyze crucial shipping routes.

The United States is Australia’s largest market for beef and lamb, with over 235,000 tons of beef and 57,000 tons of lamb and mutton exported by August this year.

While high-quality chilled beef is shipped through the U.S. West Coast ports, frozen trimmings—commonly used in hamburgers—typically enter through East Coast ports such as Philadelphia, New York, and New Jersey, which are directly threatened by the strike.

Shipping companies and port users are already exploring contingency plans, including rerouting to West Coast ports or, in some cases, using airfreight for higher-value products like organic and Wagyu beef.

However, shifting goods across the country could result in additional freight costs, with estimates of up to $8,000 per container to trans-ship refrigerated goods overland.

The strike’s potential to create major backlogs and congestion in U.S. ports is raising concerns across the supply chain, including among U.S. meat exporters.

The U.S. Meat Export Federation (USMEF) has issued warnings about the severe impact a shutdown would have, urging government intervention to prevent a supply chain disruption.

With just days remaining before the contract expires, the industry is anxiously awaiting the outcome of negotiations.

Stay informed on how U.S. port strikes could impact Australian meat exports. Visit our homepage for updates.

About the author

Timothy Woods
CEO / Co-Founder
Timothy Woods holds a Kinesiology and Exercise Science degree from Jacksonville University and is CCC & GMU Certified. He's also the main man behind Carnivore Style. This food aficionado combines science and experience to spread the word about the carnivore lifestyle.
Learn more about our editorial policy
Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *