Oslo - Ripple effects of strike action at ports on the US East and Gulf coasts will cause severe supply chain disruption into 2025, with analysts warning government intervention may be required to avoid major economic fallout.

A total of 36 ports are preparing for a complete stoppage if a new deal cannot be agreed with the International Longshoreman’s Association (ILA), which represents 85,000 port workers, before the 30 September deadline.

Peter Sand, Chief Analyst at Xeneta, said: “There are ships on the ocean right now carrying billions of dollars of cargo . . .