The International Longshoremen's Association (ILA) is threatening to strike on October 1, potentially causing severe disruptions to U.S. supply chains and the economy. The union, representing over 85,000 workers at ports along the East and Gulf Coasts, is in a deadlock with the U.S. Maritime Alliance (USMX) over demands for wage increases and protections against automation. Experts warn that a strike could cost the U.S. economy approximately $5 billion per day and lead to inflation similar to that seen during the COVID-19 pandemic. The USMX has filed an unfair labor practice charge to force the union back to the negotiating table, but the ILA claims that the offers so far are inadequate. Both parties have blamed each other for the stall in negotiations, which began in June after the ILA accused USMX of contract violations. The Biden administration is expected to intervene quickly to mitigate any economic fallout.