Since this story was written, the port strike has been suspended until Jan. 15.
MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WIAT) -- As the nationwide port strike continues, state leaders say there is no need to rush to the store to stock up on supplies.
This comes as stores are being wiped clean of toilet paper and paper towels, just like in the early days of the pandemic.
"I understand that people want more money, better benefits," said Carolyn Bowie Feaster, a concerned shopper. "I understand that. But exporting/importing is very important. Cause that's how we feed our children, our family, our nation, our country."
Feaster was on her way to Sam's Club, concerned about the strike. And she said she's not the only one. "I don't know how long the strike's gonna be. My girlfriend already explained, there's nothing on the shelf in Birmingham," she recalled. "I'm worried about dry goods, wet goods. How are we gonna get these things?"
When it comes to those wet and dry goods, Ellie Taylor, the President of the Alabama Grocers Association, is reassuring shoppers.
"Consumers may have to choose different products. Their very favorite product may not be available in stores," said Taylor. "But there should be- obviously- other options, and there will be food, so people are not gonna run out of food in the stores."
Taylor said these favorite products will include fresh fruits and vegetables from out of the country. She said paper products are sourced domestically-, and that if there's a shortage on these, it will be a demand issue and not one of supply. This goes for products like toilet paper.
Taylor further explained that retailers are waiting to see what other products will be affected as the strike continues. "One thing we would ask consumers to do- please do not stockpile. Please take what you need, but leave some for your neighbor," she remarked. "People stockpiling items is only going to exacerbate the situation and make these out of stocks worse."
Stefania Jones with the Department of Commerce said automotive parts and chemicals could also be impacted.
"Disrupting the smooth flow of these goods- as could happen with the Longshoreman's Strike- could lead to delays and increased costs for businesses and that is a very real concern," Jones said.
Jones also said the Department of Commerce is monitoring how this is influencing the state when it comes to international trade. She said they encourage the union to come back to the negotiation table.