US: West coast labor disruption costs Idaho millions of dollars

Labor disruptions at west coast ports are damaging Idaho’s agricultural exporters.  The Idaho Department of Agriculture said negotiations between the International Longshore and Warehouse Union and Pacific Maritime Association are creating numerous problems including congestion, slowdowns, and terminal closures. The department said the dispute is hurting Idaho agriculture directly, resulting in lack of available equipment, increased costs, and lost sales. The Idaho potato industry has suffered cancelled orders because customers cannot get product delivered.  Idaho Potato Commission President and CEO Frank Muir said slowdowns at the ports are affecting previously signed contracts and price negotiations with new and current clients. More