WTDC Newsletter – October 15, 2024
Sean Gazitua comments on port strike to Miami Today
On October 4th, the morning after it was announced portworkers would return to the docks, WTDC President and CEO Sean Gazitua was interviewed by Miami Today.
He comments in the article: “September 30, we received as many containers as we could that were available…. We don’t like to leave anything loaded outside, so we unloaded them at our facility or at wherever other, because it’s not only our facility in Miami, we also have shipments that are outside of Miami, and we made sure that those were unloaded. Unfortunately, the containers couldn’t go back to the port, so they had to stay within the facility and wait until today [Oct. 4], actually. This morning, when I drove into the warehouse, everything was getting picked up … it’s been busy.”
Click here for the full article:
| Miami Today: Half million containers being unloaded late after ports strike |
Florida Ports Reopen after Hurricane Milton
PortMiami and Port Everglades are now back in full operation after delays and closures due to Hurricane Milton last week. Additionally, Port Tampa Bay, Port Canaveral, Port of Palm Beach, and JAXPORT are back in service, ensuring the continuation of shipping and cruise activities across Florida.
Sean Gazitua article on logistics in Red Sea and Panama Canal
On September 25th, WTDC President and CEO Sean Gazitua had the honor of contributing an article to Travel Markets Insider. In his latest article, he covers the ongoing impact of shipping disruptions in the Red Sea and the restored flow of vessels through the Panama Canal. This article is a follow up to an article he authored in April 2024 Article. Click below for the full article.
TMI: Logistics: more than one trillion in economic losses from Red Sea and Panama Canal disruptions
President’s Corner
On behalf of WTDC, our hearts go out to everyone affected by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. The aftermath has left a devastating impact on communities in Florida and beyond.
Our thoughts and prayers are with those who have lost loved ones and those facing significant damage to their homes and businesses. The strength and resilience of our community shine through in these trying times, and we are committed to providing support in any way we can.
Sean Gazitua, President & CEO
Vendor Appreciation: MVC Transportation
WTDC is proud to recognize MVC Transportation as our Vendor of the Month! MVC Transportation is a valued WTDC transportation partner.
The company provides drayage services in South Florida and Puerto Rico. We would also like to thank MVC for generously giving to our charitable drives including our water and pajama drives for His House Children’s Home and our school supply and Thanksgiving drives for Lotus House Women’s Shelter.
Special thanks to MVC Transportation President Carlos Dueñas and Operations Manager Lazaro Quintana for attending our Monthly Awards Ceremony where we recognized MVC for their continued support and partnership!
PortMiami Receives $20 Million Grant
On September 9th, 2024, PortMiami secured nearly $20 million in state funds from the Resilient Florida Program. These funds will be allocated to construct a new and elevated Berth 10 bulkhead system that will protect from flooding caused by rising sea levels. This aligns with Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava’s Climate Action Strategy to safeguard critical assets and maintain PortMiami as a global trade hub.
Seatrade: PortMiami granted $19.5m for Berth 10 bulkhead resiliency
ILA x USMX Strike Postponed
On October 3rd, the International Longshoreman’s Association (ILA) and United States Maritime Alliance Ltd. (USMX) came to an agreement following the strike that was initiated on September 30th. ILA members are set to receive a 62% increase in wages over the next six years. However, negotiations will continue up to January 15th, 2025, where the Master Contact is set to expire. Port operations are set to resume until a final resolution is reached.
Dockworkers’ union suspends strike until Jan. 15 | AP News
