Contract talks between the International Longshoremen's Association and U.S. Maritime Alliance reached an impasse over automation, risking a strike by January 15. Dockworker representatives insist on protections against job loss, while employers advocate for modernization to enhance competitiveness and efficiency. Despite reaching a tentative wage increase agreement, divergences on technology use remain critical. The Biden administration is closely monitoring the situation amidst worries about the impact of potential tariffs by President-elect Trump on international trade.