The ILWU Opposes White House Tariffs, Warns of Job Losses and Inflation

The International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) has raised concerns over the White House’s recent imposition of tariffs on foreign goods. The ILWU, representing workers at major container ports on the U.S. West Coast, anticipates a significant decline in import cargo volume due to the administration’s 145 percent tariff on Chinese products.

In a strongly worded statement, the ILWU expressed fears of widespread job losses resulting from the tariffs, labeling them as a direct attack on the working class. The union firmly opposes the measures and calls for their outright rejection.

Already, carriers are taking preemptive action by canceling sailings in anticipation of reduced demand on ex-China shipping routes due to the high tariffs. Hapag Lloyd has reported a 30 percent cancellation rate for shipments originating from China, while the number of boxships en route to the U.S. from China has dropped by approximately 40 percent since the tariff announcement in April.

While some importers may seek alternative supply chain options in Southeast Asia, retailers have cautioned that certain products could become scarce on store shelves. The ILWU has warned of impending scarcity and inflation, estimating a baseline increase in the cost of living of around $1600 per household annually.

The fluctuating nature of the tariffs adds further uncertainty, with the White House recently reducing levies on electronics and semiconductors. Efforts are also underway to lower the overall effective rate on foreign car parts critical to U.S. automotive manufacturing.

Tit-for-Tat Tariffs: China’s Response

China has retaliated by imposing tariffs of 125 percent on U.S. goods and restricting exports of heavy rare earth elements. Beijing is demanding significant tariff relief as a prerequisite for negotiations, emphasizing the need for equality, respect, and mutual benefit in any dialogue.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Guo Jiakun denied recent high-level communications between the U.S. and China, urging the U.S. to refrain from threats and coercion and instead pursue dialogue for a peaceful resolution.

The ongoing trade tensions between the U.S. and China continue to escalate, with both sides maintaining firm stances on tariff policies. The ILWU’s vocal opposition to the tariffs underscores the potential economic consequences and hardships that may befall working families in the wake of these trade disputes.