A dockworker strike at major U.S. East and Gulf Coast ports could disrupt global supply chains and increase consumer prices. The International Longshoremen's Association began the strike at fourteen key ports over wage and automation disputes. These ports handle $3 trillion in annual trade. Matthew Shay, CEO of the National Retail Federation, warned of economic consequences during the recovery, especially ahead of the holiday season. Economists fear renewed inflation, particularly for perishables such as coffee, frozen food, and bananas. The strike mirrors previous supply chain issues from the pandemic, with inflation risks growing the longer it persists.