The port strike on the East and Gulf Coasts by the International Longshoremen’s Association could have a notable impact on meat exports. The U.S. Meat Export Federation said almost $3 billion in red meat exports passed through the affected ports during the first seven months of 2024. This represents nearly $100 million in weekly exports.

The strike coincides with the fourth quarter peak in meat exports. Prok production ramps up ahead of the year-end holidays.

Smaller businesses that ship products to the Caribbean and Central and South America may be hit the hardest. There are no cost-effective alternatives for some routes, like Houston. For example, beef liver shipments to Egypt depend on the Port of Houston.

The negotiations between the International Longshoremen’s Association and the United States Maritime Alliance broke down on October 1 and 45,000 workers walked out in protest of wages and automation.

Read more on how the port strike could impact meat exports here.