The Associated Press reported that Union and State officials have reopened the negotiations to keep Maersk at the Port of Charleston.  Last week Maersk, who represents +/- 25% of the Port of Charleston’s business, announced they would be leaving the port at the end of 2010.  The state port authority had submitted a proposal to Maersk to retain them, and Maersk agreed to those terms.  However, there was a requirement that the ILA union renegotiate the terms of their contract with Maersk.  The ILA refused, and Maersk announced they were leaving.

Now, after realizing what they lost, the ILA is joining forces with the state to attempt to retain the shipping line.  With volumes down and the economy in a major slump, I suspect Maersk has the upper hand in these negotiations.  To lose 25% of their business would be a major blow to the Port of Charleston.  Plus, there would be a huge blemish on their reputation within the shipping community.  Just look what happened when the West Coast ports couldn’t deliver good union relations.  If Charleston is seen as unfriendly to shippers, their place as a major port of call is in serious jeopardy.

The next few weeks will be very interesting.