Dear President Biden,
On behalf of the Automotive Body Parts Association (ABPA), representing manufacturers, distributors, and suppliers of aftermarket automotive collision parts, we write to express our grave concern over the impending port labor negotiations between the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX). The potential disruption of East and Gulf Coast port operations would have a devastating impact on the entire automotive parts supply chain and, by extension, on consumers across the country.
The aftermarket automotive parts industry is a critical component of the broader vehicle repair ecosystem, ensuring that consumers have access to affordable, high-quality parts for safe and reliable vehicle repairs. Our member companies rely heavily on the efficient flow of goods through these ports, importing essential parts and materials. A strike or prolonged work stoppage would immediately halt this supply chain, resulting in severe shortages and price increases that would directly burden consumers, repair facilities, and insurers.
The ripple effects of a port strike would extend beyond our industry, potentially creating significant disruptions for collision repair operations, leading to delays in vehicle repairs and putting further financial strain on already pressured American families. With the average age of vehicles on U.S. roads continuing to rise, the need for reliable and affordable parts is greater than ever. Any interruption in the supply chain will diminish the availability of critical repair parts, limit consumer choice, and increase repair costs, making it more difficult for Americans to maintain the safety and functionality of their vehicles.
We appreciate your administration’s focus on supply chain resiliency and your leadership in navigating previous labor disputes, including your efforts to resolve negotiations on the West Coast and in the rail and logistics sectors. As we approach the September 30 deadline, we urge you to once again take swift action to ensure that both parties return to the negotiating table and prioritize a solution that keeps our ports open and cargo flowing. Preventing a strike is essential not just for our industry, but for all sectors dependent on these crucial trade gateways.
With inflation concerns and economic uncertainty still top of mind for American families, it is more important than ever to avoid disruptions that would negatively impact consumers. We call upon your administration to work with all parties involved and ensure that our nation’s ports remain operational, preventing the severe economic damage that a shutdown would cause.
Thank you for your attention to this urgent matter.
Sincerely,
Edward Salamy
Executive Director
Automotive Body Parts Association (ABPA)
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