Labor issues at various points in the international transportation matrix can delay the delivery of products. What happens in individual markets can often impact the global market and purchasing decisions by international buyers.

Early in 2015, dockworkers at U.S. West Coast ports caused a slowdown in normal port operations because of an ongoing deadlock in contract negotiations. The dispute has been resolved, and work is progressing on clearing the backlog of cargo.

A trucker strike in Brazil early in 2015 also gained worldwide attention. Trucker-initiated roadblocks prevented timely shipments of grain and meat to southern ports there. Some of the grain harvest there has been delayed due to lack of fuel deliveries to operate farm machinery. The truckers were on strike to protest high diesel costs, toll fees and worker benefits.

In Argentina, farm workers planned strikes to protest their government’s high taxes and other restrictions. While a short-term protest will not likely disrupt major export activity there, unresolved issues could lead to more extensive disruptions when grain harvest begins.

The U.S. Grains Council (USGC) follows these issues and encourages suppliers to talk with their customers to overcome any issues as they arise.