LEADING trade associations and retailers are urging US east coast and Gulf Coast box terminal bosses and unions to hold talks to avoid potential strike action in January. A temporary contract between the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) and US Maritime Alliance (USMX) agreed in October after three days of strikes is due to expire on January 15, sparking concerns of further industrial action. In the past, industrial action at US ports has resulted in a modal shift to air as...