Mike Pearson takes a look at the possibility of a labor strike involving the International Longshoremen's Union and the U.S. Maritime Alliance.

As of Jan. 7, labor discussions have resumed with the goal to avoid a strike.

The strike could begin in a week. This means the stakes are high with the contract to end Jan. 15.

Dock workers could call a strike which would have a big impact on major ports from Maine to Texas and hurt the ag industry.

The repercussions would impact 40 percent of ag exports which move through those ports.

The delays could mean spoilage to some agriculture goods or bring problems with farmers trying to gain parts for tractors and equipment.

The ag industry is also concerned about the timing of the strike.

Last year, in the first part of 2024, 44 percent of pork and 29 percent of beef exports were moved through the ports, according to the U.S. Meat Export Federation.

A strike would also hurt the livestock industry with $1.1 billion a week lost in the ag industry.

Farm Progress America is a daily look at key issues in agriculture. It is produced and presented by Mike Pearson, farm broadcaster and host of This Week in Agribusiness.