The International Longshore and Warehouse Union (ILWU) has threatened to go on strike at 29 ports along the West Coast of the United States from October 1st. The potential strike has already caused disruptions, with some companies moving cargo to other ports and others stockpiling goods. The ILWU is seeking higher wages and better working conditions. The ports handle around a third of all container traffic in the US, and a strike could have significant economic consequences.