Slowdown in exports of apples

Social conflicts in the major ports on the West Coast of the United States inhibit the export of apples from the state of Washington.

The State of Washington, the first US state producer of apples , which records this year a record harvest of fruits (+ 35% compared to normal estimate of 155 million boxes of 40 pounds) , is faced with social conflicts in ports.

Lack of staff, equipment problems and lack of security argue that unions seek review of employment contracts in 29 ports on the West Coast.The two main customers of apples in Washington State (Mexico, Canada ) do not require shipping but all other locations, nearly 60 countries , do. Apples must leave US ports by the end of November to be delivered in Asia and Central America for the Christmas period.

source : statesman journal com, news on 6 com