UNITED STATES - President Biden conducted a meeting at the White House with the business community and carriers, as well as labor and port representatives, to address the increasing challenges posed by the congested supply chain. As part of the solution, the Port of Los Angeles is to begin operating around the clock to relieve the backlogs of goods awaiting entrance into the United States.

Within the produce industry, this situation has become absolutely critical, as companies await fresh goods on boats that are stuck in ports. Product shortages are also frustrating American consumers—and this frustration will only heighten as we make our way into the holiday season.

The National Retail Federation (NRF) issued a statement regarding the meeting, underlining one important factor: that we must work together in order to solve this problem.

“We thank President Biden, Vice President Harris, Secretary Buttigieg, Director Deese, and Port Envoy John Porcari for their leadership to address the ongoing global supply chain disruption,” the statement read. “It is critically important that we all come together—business, labor, and government—to address the current issue regarding port congestion, and the long-term need to create a more reliable supply chain globally and within the United States.”

According to a report from The New York Times, administration officials say they have brokered a deal to move the Port of Los Angeles toward 24/7 operations. They will join the Port of Long Beach, which is already working at this pace. The administration is also encouraging states to accelerate the licensing of truck drivers, and companies such as Walmart, UPS, and FedEx have announced they are moving to work more off-peak hours.

“The retail industry greatly appreciates President Biden’s personal commitment to marshal the power of the federal government behind efforts to reduce the disruptions our members are currently facing, and retailers remain committed to working with all stakeholders to ensure consumers have access to the products and services they want and expect,” NRF’s statement continued. “NRF has been urging more focus and resources to address supply chain failures for many years, and we look forward to continued efforts that result in sustainable solutions for this growing problem.”

Although it is unclear just how much help the Biden administration can provide, we hope that leaders across every sector will be able to get the resources needed to address this critical problem.

AndNowUKnow will continue to keep you abreast of the global supply chain, so please stay tuned.