Higher dock costs resulting from a tentative agreement to end the strike at East Coast and Gulf Coast ports are expected to drive up steel prices and reduce imports, according to market sources. The deal between the International Longshoremen’s Association (ILA) and the United States Maritime Alliance (USMX) will increase dock worker wages by 62%, raising hourly pay from $39 to $63. While the steel industry is relieved that the strike has been suspended, concerns remain about inflationary effects on consumer prices and the potential for reduced imports and increased reshoring in the future.