The contract between the ports and the International Longshoremen’s Association expired, leading to a strike affecting 36 ports, the first since 1977. Workers demand a fair contract with protections against automation and significant pay raises. The strike could disrupt the supply chain, especially for perishable goods, and has economic implications estimated at billions per day. The union is prepared to continue striking until their demands are met, while the alliance has made some concessions but not enough to satisfy the union.