Weather, strikes and geopolitics weigh on volumes, with recovery in March and continued investments in the future

In the first quarter of 2026, Port of Antwerp‑Bruges handled 65.5 million tons of maritime cargo, a decrease of 3.2% compared to the same period last year. After a weak start in January and February, throughput recovered in March. General cargo (-4.4%) – in particular containers and conventional general cargo – was under pressure, while bulk cargo remained stable (-0.6%) and RoRo traffic increased. The results reflect a complex combination of factors, including adverse weather conditions, social actions, geopolitical tensions and a weakened European industrial base.

Weaker start for container traffic

In the first quarter of 2026, container throughput decreased by 5.5% in tons and 2.6% in TEU compared to the same period last year. This should be seen against the backdrop of a relatively strong start to 2025, when the restructuring of container alliances generated high inbound volumes, as well as the weakened export position of Western Europe.

In addition, the start of the year was marked by extreme weather conditions. A snowstorm and prolonged cold spell in January, followed by severe storms in the Bay of Biscay until mid‑February, disrupted shipping and terminal operations. A four‑day strike against pension reform also had a significant impact. The interruption of the nautical chain led to the diversion of several vessels to other ports and to planned call-sizes that could only be partially handled due to a lack of spare terminal capacity.

Overall, an estimated 100,000 TEU (approximately 1.1 million ton) of container throughput was lost. From mid‑February onwards, and particularly in March, volumes recovered, once again highlighting the need for additional container handling capacity.

Quarterly figures Q1 2026

Mixed performance in other segments

Conventional general cargo was also under pressure, mainly due to lower steel exports to key markets such as the United States, Mexico and Canada, as well as the entry into force of the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) on 1 January 2026.

By contrast, the RoRo segment recorded growth, driven by higher volumes of new vehicles and high & heavy equipment. Shortsea RoRo traffic remains affected by the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS), particularly on longer hauls, although the shift towards road transport appears to be slowing as diesel prices rise.

Dry bulk declined by 4.9%, due among other things to lower fertiliser volumes and the disappearance of coal traffic. Liquid bulk recorded slight growth of 0.2%, supported by a strong performance in March. However, developments within the segment varied widely: volumes increased for gasoline, naphtha, fuel oil and LNG, while diesel, kerosene and LPG declined.

These trends are influenced by changing market conditions, shifts in feedstock, anticipation of the European import ban on Russian LNG, as well as geopolitical tensions and market dynamics such as backwardation. Chemicals throughput remains under pressure due to the weak position of the European chemical industry.

First impact of the Middle East conflict

The direct impact of the conflict in the Middle East remained limited in the first quarter due to longer sailing times via the Cape of Good Hope. The decline in imports from and exports to and from the Persian Gulf, of respectively 12% and 49%, during this period can largely be attributed to weather‑related disruptions.

From the end of March onwards, however, the first effects became visible. On 23 March, the last LNG tanker so far from Qatar arrived in Zeebrugge, and container lines adjusted their sailing schedules towards alternative ports in the Middle East and the eastern Mediterranean.

At present, the most significant impact of the conflict and the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz is indirect, through rising energy and fuel prices. These increased bunker and transport costs and further weaken the competitiveness of European industry. At the same time, low European gas storage levels – which will need to be replenished ahead of next winter – and disruptions in supply chains for certain products are creating additional

Investments and projects reinforce future‑oriented strategy

Despite geopolitical tensions and economic pressure, Port of Antwerp‑Bruges continues to invest in its future. The arrival of Chinese manufacturer Windrose, which is developing its first European flagship site for electric trucks in Antwerp, confirms the port’s international appeal for innovative and sustainable investments.

At the same time, operational capacity is being reinforced through the modernisation of the Europa Terminal, where newly delivered crane infrastructure will play a key role in handling the world’s largest container vessels. With the launch of market assessment for the ECA project, Port of Antwerp‑Bruges is also taking the next step towards additional container handling capacity, with the ambition of supporting future growth in a sustainable and resilient manner.

At a strategic level as well, Port of Antwerp‑Bruges continues to take the lead. During the European Industry Summit in Antwerp, the port endorsed the Antwerp Call to Alden Biesen, a clear appeal for a stronger European industrial policy, focusing on competitive energy prices, fair trade conditions, protection against carbon leakage and recognition of the chemical sector as a cornerstone of European industry.

Rob Smeets, CEO ad interim Port of Antwerp-Bruges:

“This quarter’s results show how strongly external factors are currently influencing port activity and the wider economy. We are seeing the impact of geopolitical tensions, disruptions in supply chains and the difficult position of European industry. At the same time, this underlines the importance of a robust and agile port infrastructure. By continuing to invest in capacity, sustainability and efficiency, we are strengthening our role as a reliable link in international trade – even in an increasingly complex environment.”

 

Johan Klaps, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Port of Antwerp Bruges and Antwerp Alderman for the Port:

“The figures for this quarter show that the pressure on the European economy is not a cyclical phenomenon, but points to structural bottlenecks in the competitiveness of the European economy. This calls for clear choices at the European level, but also for ports that think ahead. Port of Antwerp-Bruges is taking on that responsibility by actively investing in robust infrastructure and future-oriented capacity, as well as in a sustainable energy policy.”

Dirk De fauw, Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors of Port of Antwerp Bruges and Mayor of Bruges:

“The developments of this quarter underline the crucial importance of the port for the economic strength of our region and of Europe as a whole. From Zeebrugge, we play a key role in energy supply, logistics and industrial activities. Investments in infrastructure, innovation and sustainable projects not only generate additional traffic, but also jobs and economic growth. In this way, we continue to build a strong, future‑proof port that contributes to broad‑based prosperity.”

 

Would you like to know more?

The post External conditions impact Port of Antwerp-Bruges’ quarterly results appeared first on Cargo Connexion.

The post Leadership change at Port of Antwerp-Bruges: Jacques Vandermeiren steps down as CEO appeared first on Cargo Connexion.

United States becomes largest trade partner despite import tariffs

The post Port of Antwerp-Bruges ends 2025 with resilience in a turbulent trading climate appeared first on Cargo Connexion.

The post Reminder Press invite: Annual Review 2025 & Outlook 2026 appeared first on Cargo Connexion.

Container traffic stabilises, bulk traffic under pressure due to international uncertainty

The post Mixed picture for Port of Antwerp-Bruges in volatile trade climate appeared first on Cargo Connexion.

In the first six months of 2025, the total throughput of Port of Antwerp-Bruges was 137.2 million tonnes, a decrease of 4.3% compared to the same period last year. While container and RoRo traffic saw growth, both dry and liquid bulk volumes declined. Congestion at terminals, driven by a mix of logistical challenges and market developments, remains a persistent issue across Northwest Europe. A standout trend is the continuing surge in trade with the United States, reinforcing Port of Antwerp-Bruges’ robust position on transatlantic routes.

Key highlights

• Total cargo throughput down 4.3% in first half 2025
• Bulk volumes sharply lower, while container throughput increased
• Continued congestion is raising the pressure on terminals
• Increasing traffic with the US strengthened the Transatlantic position of Port of Antwerp-Bruges

Container growth vs capacity constraints

Container traffic held up well, increasing by 3.6% in tonnage (to 77 million tonnes) and 3.7% in TEUs (6.91 million TEUs) compared to H1 2024. However, persistent congestion puts terminal capacity under heavy strain; a challenge felt across Northwest Europe.

Several factors are contributing to the current congestion. Container ship arrivals remain irregular due to disruptions dating back to the Covid crisis, further exacerbated by rerouting around the Cape of Good Hope to avoid the Red Sea. The recent reshuffling of container alliances has temporarily led to simultaneous vessel calls and high cargo volumes. Poor schedule reliability is complicating terminal planning: containers remain on site longer, and vessels are arriving with increasingly large loads. As a result, average dwell times have increased to 7–8 days, compared to the usual 5 days. Overcrowded terminals require additional container movements, placing extra strain on personnel and equipment. On top of this, national union actions have added further operational pressure.

While waterside congestion and the associated waiting times for vessels remains currently relatively limited, the landside impact on terminals is critical. Therefore, additional space for container handling is necessary. The Extra Container Capacity Antwerp (ECA) project will address this, through the construction of a new dock and more efficient use of existing space.

Mixed picture in other segments

Liquid bulk throughput fell by 17.1% in H1 2025, mainly due to sharp declines in fuels, naphtha, and LNG. Geopolitical tensions, EU sanctions, and market overcapacity were key factors. Only LPG and kerosene showed growth. Chemical product throughput saw a rise of 8.9%, driven by biofuels. Without that component, volumes remained flat, reflecting ongoing pressure in Europe’s chemical sector. Dry bulk throughput fell by 11%, due to lower coal and construction material volumes. In contrast, there was a sharp increase in fertilizer imports. These opposing trends are linked to EU sanctions against Russia, as imports of Russian coal are completely banned, and planned additional import duties on Russian fertilizers are prompting exporters to increase their shipments.

The impact on non-containerised general cargo segments remained more limited. Conventional general cargo was less affected overall, but still declined by 4.3%, particularly due to weaker steel and iron traffic. Tightened European import restrictions on cheap foreign steel and China’s planned reduction of steel overcapacity may stabilise the European steel market in the longer term. RoRo traffic edged up by 1.4%. Although fewer new cars were shipped, this was offset by growth in truck, high & heavy equipment, and second-hand vehicle volumes. Unaccompanied freight throughput slipped by 1%, with regional variations.

The post Container growth softens impact of declining bulk traffic and congestion in first half of 2025 appeared first on Cargo Connexion.

Fleet renewal continues with five additional energy-efficient RSD tugs

Today, Port of Antwerp-Bruges is launching the Volta 1, Europe’s first fully electric tugboat. The launch marks an important step in the port’s integrated greening programme, with the ultimate goal of a climate-neutral operation by 2050. Developed in close cooperation with Damen, the tugboat follows previous world firsts such as the Hydrotug (hydrogen-driven) and the Methatug (methanol-driven).

• ⚓ Volta 1 is the first all-electric RSD tugboat in Europe
• ⚓ A step in greening the fleet on the way to a climate-neutral port by 2050
• ​⚓ Testing of various fuels such as electricity, hydrogen and methanol

Fully electric, as powerful as diesel

The Volta 1 is a Reversed Stern Drive (RSD) tugboat designed on a double bow principle and equipped with a patented Twin Fin skeg for optimal stability and manoeuvrability. As a result, it can be used flexibly as a front and back tugboat. With its battery capacity of 2,782 MWh, recharged in as little as two hours via a powerful 1.5 MW charging station, the Volta 1 is completely emission-free and can cruise for up to 12 hours. Its towing power of 70 tons guarantees the same performance as a traditional diesel tug boat.

Watch Video >>

On course for a climate-neutral port

The Volta 1 is part of a broader renewal of the tug-boat fleet. Together with five energy-efficient RSD tugs, also commissioned today, this replaces older vessels. The tug service, responsible for nearly 85% of port-related CO₂ emissions, is thus undergoing a profound greening. Port of Antwerp-Bruges systematically strives to integrate the most environmentally friendly technologies, as part of its ambition to be climate neutral by 2050.

Pioneering in energy transition

As the fifth-largest bunker port in the world, Port of Antwerp-Bruges also aims to become a full-fledged multi-fuel port. It therefore wants to offer low-carbon alternatives in addition to bio- and conventional fuels. Over the past year and a half, the port introduced the world’s first hydrogen and methanol-powered tugs. By testing these technologies side by side in the field, Port of Antwerp-Bruges can determine which solution scores best in terms of emissions, cost, autonomy and performance. In doing so, it anchors its role as a pioneer in the international energy transition and hopes to inspire other ports and sectors to take action.

Reliable partner in sustainable innovation

The partnership with Damen Shipyards Group plays a key role in this transition. Damen, which built the world’s first electric tugboat in 2022 in Auckland, New Zealand, began construction of the six RSD tugs for Port of Antwerp-Bruges in 2023 in Vietnam. After a journey of more than 10,000 kilometres, the ships arrived in Antwerp in November 2024. There they were prepared for operational deployment, including a technical start-up, crew training and installation of charging infrastructure. The official launch of the Volta 1 is the culmination of this journey.

Jacques Vandermeiren, CEO Port of Antwerp-Bruges: “The Volta 1 is a powerful example of our strategy to actively integrate sustainable technology into our operations. As a global port, we are taking our responsibility to pull the maritime sector into the energy transition. The Volta 1, together with the Hydrotug, Methatug and RSD tugs, represents a tangible step towards a climate-neutral port by 2050.”

Johan Klaps, Vice Mayor for the Port and Economy City of Antwerp / President of the board Port of Antwerp-Bruges: “Achieving this European first in the year when we are also celebrating 150 years of tug service makes it both symbolic and historic. It shows how our port and region continue to invest in sustainable innovation. Even in challenging times, we resolutely choose the future and take a leadership role.”

Vincent Maes, Sales Manager Benelux Damen: “We are delighted and very honoured to have been able to deliver the latest additions to the Port of Antwerp-Bruges tug fleet: five brand new and efficient diesel tugs equipped with after-treatment systems and an innovative electric tug, all of type RSD2513. This delivery is perfectly in line with our ongoing commitment to better ships and technological progress. We are delighted that this allows us to contribute to achieving the port’s ambitious sustainability targets.”

Specifications of the Volta 1

The post Port of Antwerp-Bruges launches the Volta 1: Europe’s first electric tugboat appeared first on Cargo Connexion.

Resilience, sustainability and collaboration as drivers of growth.

Port of Antwerp-Bruges will close 2024 with 2.3% growth in total throughput, amounting to 278 million tons. Despite geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainties, the port is showing resilience, with a strong increase in container throughput as the main driver. Ambitious plans are ready for 2025 to further strengthen its pivotal role in energy transition and international trade.

Strong container throughput drives growth amid turbulent times

Despite a turbulent economic climate, with rising energy prices, geopolitical tensions and increased international competition, Port of Antwerp-Bruges managed to achieve a total throughput of 278 million tons in 2024, a 2.3% increase over 2023.

Containers were the driving force behind this growth, up 8.9% in tonnage and 8.1% in TEUs. Reefer containers increased by 9.2%, accounting for 8.6% of total container traffic. The market share in the Hamburg-Le Havre Range grew by 0.7 percentage points to 30.6% in the first nine months of the year.

Other segments felt the impact of challenging market conditions. The chemicals sector is experiencing its worst years since 2009, while sectors such as construction and automotive were under pressure from high energy and raw material prices and low demand. Instability in the Red Sea and geopolitical tensions led to longer shipping times and uncertainty in international shipping.

Conventional general cargo maintained the status quo (0.1%), with growth in iron and steel throughput (+3.7%) while other product groups declined. RoRo throughput declined 3.4% by 2024, driven by a decline in auto throughput (-10.3%). Dry bulk throughput increased slightly by 0.4%. Coal fell sharply (-35.4%), but fertilisers compensated with 22.9% growth. Liquid bulk experienced a 5.8% decline, mainly due to reduced demand for diesel (-22.3%) and LNG (-21.9%). Chemicals, on the other hand, grew strongly (+14.8%), helped by an increase in biofuels (+60.1%), and despite continued pressure on the European chemicals sector.

In 2024, 20,195 seagoing vessels called at Port of Antwerp-Bruges, a slight increase of 0.2%. Zeebrugge welcomed 187 cruise ships and 557,000 passengers in 2024.

Port in transition

In 2024, important steps were again taken toward the ambition of becoming a climate-neutral port by 2050, a priority that remains central in 2025. The focus on the circular economy continues to take shape in NextGen District and the innovation hub NextGen Demo. The CHERISH2O project, aimed at purifying and reusing company wastewater, and the Warmtenet Antwerpen Noord, Belgium’s first open-access heat network, also contribute to the port’s circular ambitions.

In the maritime sector, the first methanol bunkering of a deep-sea vessel marked an important milestone in the development of Port of Antwerp-Bruges as a multifuel port. Shore power projects in Antwerp and Zeebrugge play a vital role in reducing emissions and noise pollution. The installation of one of Europe’s largest public charging stations for electric trucks makes the Antwerp port area an indispensable link in sustainable freight transport. In addition, the sustainability of its own fleet continued with innovations such as the Volta 1, Europe’s first all-electric tug, and the Methatug, the world’s first tug powered by methanol.

Infrastructure: basis for sustainable growth and competitiveness

With the official introduction of a 16-meter draught in 2024, the port has significantly strengthened its competitive position. The record 16.3-meter draught at Zeebrugge, underscores this progress. At the same time, the ICO RoRo terminal in Zeebrugge is being further developed, responding to the platform’s growing demand for capacity. The construction of the new Antwerp Coordination Center will also serve as a strategic hub to optimise the nautical chain and further increase the efficiency of the port.

These infrastructure developments are not only critical to the port’s operational performance and sustainable growth, but also enhance its appeal to innovative investors such as Vioneo.

In addition to infrastructure, security remains a priority, with the successful roll-out of Certified Pick up releasing more than 1 million containers safely by 2024.

Collaboration as a foundation for success

The ambition of Port of Antwerp-Bruges is clear: to continue to play a pivotal role in energy transition and international trade. To strengthen this role, the port combines its position as a catalyst for investment with strategic investments of its own. Cooperation is indispensable in this regard. Through partnerships with various stakeholders, the port manages to connect economic growth, innovation and sustainability and remains an essential link in the international logistics chain.

Jacques Vandermeiren, CEO Port of Antwerp-Bruges: “Over the past year, we have once again demonstrated our resilience. More than ever, the challenges we face, such as geopolitical tensions, the energy transition and complex permit processes, require cross-border cooperation and a shared vision. Only then will we remain attractive to investors and maintain our strategic role as a pioneer in the industry. In addition, the demand for additional capacity continues to grow louder, while security becomes an increasingly important issue. 2025 will undoubtedly be another year of challenges, but also of opportunities. With our unique mix of logistics, maritime and industry, and our strategic location, we are ready to prove our agility once again.”

Johan Klaps, Port Alderman of the City of Antwerp: ​ “We look back on 2024 with pride, but forward to 2025 with greater ambition. Our port is the economic engine of Flanders, even in challenging times. ​ And we continue to gain market share in the Hamburg-Le Havre Range. This is due to the efforts of all the employees and companies who give their best every day, and for that I am immensely grateful. To continue to grow sustainably and ensure our position as a world port, dossiers such as ECA are our top priority. With a strong focus on sustainability, innovation and strengthening our international position, we continue to invest in a future-proof port that creates prosperity for Flanders and far beyond.”

Dirk De fauw, Mayor of the city of Bruges and Vice President of Port of Antwerp-Bruges: “The complementarity of our port platforms has once again proven to offer great added value. We are also committed to community involvement, such as with the TV series ​ ‘De Haven’ ​ (The Port) and the future opening of Havenwereld (Port World), to bring the fascinating world of the port closer to the public. At the same time, we are investing in critical infrastructure, such as the renewal of Zweedse Kaai with shore power for cruise ships. I also look forward to the next steps in the NSZ (Nieuwe Sluis/New Lock Zeebrugge) project, which is essential to strengthen our position as a world port and future-proof capacity.”

The post Annual figures for Port of Antwerp-Bruges show growth despite challenging times appeared first on Cargo Connexion.

A new milestone in the greening of Port of Antwerp-Bruges: six energy-efficient tugboats, including the groundbreaking Volta 1, have arrived in the Antwerp port. The Volta 1, Europe’s first fully electric RSD tugboat, exemplifies the port’s ambition to achieve climate neutrality by 2050.

European First: The Volta 1

The electric tugboat Volta 1 is a European first. With a bollard pull of 70 tons and powerful batteries that can fully recharge in just two hours via a 1.5 MW charging station, this tugboat is completely emission-free. In addition to the Volta 1, five diesel-powered tugboats also arrived in Antwerp today. All six vessels are of the RSD (Reversed Stern Drive) type, designed with a dual-bow principle, making them exceptionally maneuverable and versatile for both forward and backward towing operations. Thanks to an advanced exhaust gas after-treatment system and energy-efficient design, the new vessels contribute to reducing emissions and fuel consumption.

An Impressive Journey: From Vietnam to Antwerp

Damen Shipyards Group began construction of the tugboats in 2023, following the order from the Antwerp-Bruges Port Authority. Built at the Damen Song Cam Shipyard in Vietnam, the tugboats underwent extensive commissioning, port tests, and sea trials after their launch between April and August this year. In October, the vessels were loaded onto the heavy-lift ship Jumbo Kinetic, renowned for transporting exceptional cargo. After a journey of more than 10,000 kilometers, with stopovers in Singapore and Las Palmas, the tugboats safely arrived in Antwerp today. In the coming months, the vessels will be prepared for full deployment in the port, including technical start-up, crew training, and testing of the Volta 1 in collaboration with new charging infrastructure installed at the Nautical Operational Cluster (NOC).

Greening the Port

The six new tugboats are part of the comprehensive greening program of the Port Authority. This initiative focuses on the renewal and sustainability of the fleet, which accounts for nearly 85% of port-related CO₂ emissions. Together with earlier projects like the Hydrotug (the first hydrogen-powered tugboat) and the Methatug (the first methanol-powered tugboat), these new tugboats underline the port’s innovative approach.

Rob Smeets, Chief Operations Officer of the Port of Antwerp-Bruges: “With this new generation of energy-efficient tugboats, we take a significant step forward in our transition to a climate-neutral fleet. This investment demonstrates our commitment to sustainable innovation. The Volta 1 is a groundbreaking addition to our fleet and a beacon for the entire maritime sector.”

Johan Klaps, Port Alderman of the City of Antwerp:“The arrival of these new tugboats marks a new chapter in the sustainability of our port and strengthens our position as the economic engine of Flanders. Just like with the Hydrotug and the Methatug, the Volta 1 once again confirms our pioneering role in the energy transition and environmentally friendly shipping.”

Vincent Maes, Sales Manager Benelux at Damen:“I want to congratulate the Port of Antwerp-Bruges on the delivery of their new tugboats, including Europe’s first fully electric tugboat. The pioneering steps they’ve taken towards greater sustainability are commendable and will undoubtedly serve as an inspiration for other ports. I look forward to continuing to build on our relationship as both Damen and the Port of Antwerp-Bruges strive for solutions for a sustainable maritime future.”

The post Six new energy-efficient tugboats arrive in Antwerp: a milestone with Europe’s first electric tugboat appeared first on Cargo Connexion.

Positive trend in container throughput continues; geopolitical situation slows growth in other product groups.

After nine months, Port of Antwerp-Bruges saw a total throughput of 210.5 million tonnes, an increase of 3% compared to the same period last year and a stabilisation in comparison to the second quarter of 2024. Demand for container transport remains strong, while the ongoing geopolitical and economic instability impacts other cargo types. Despite these challenges, the port continues to invest in sustainable and innovative projects to support energy transition and industrial growth.

Container throughput in tons increased by 8.9%, with imports increasing by 10.2% and exports by 7.9%. The growth in the first half of the year continued in the third quarter, with 12.3% more containers handled (TEUs) than in the same quarter last year. Over the first nine months, total container throughput in TEUs increased by 6.8% to 10,152,000 TEUs.

In the first half of this year, Port of Antwerp-Bruges’ market share in container handling in the Hamburg – Le Havre Range grew by 0.8 percentage points compared to 2023, to 30.7%.

Nearly 1 in 10 of the containers handled is a reefer container. In the first nine months of 2024, the number of full reefers increased by 9.7%, accounting for 8.5% of total container throughput. These temperature-controlled containers carry products such as fresh fruits, vegetables, meat, fish, pharmaceuticals and chemicals. Thanks to its strategic location, fast maritime connections and specialist terminals, Port of Antwerp-Bruges confirms its strong position in the reefer segment.

Although conventional general cargo performed strongly in the second quarter, throughput fell in the third quarter, bringing total throughput for the first nine months of 2024 down by 4.8% compared to last year. Iron and steel decreased slightly by 0.6%, with increased exports (+4%) partially offsetting lower imports (-3.5%). This decline is due to a lower demand from steel processing sectors such as construction and automotive. Products such as wood (-32.9%), paper and cellulose (-22.6%) and construction materials (-36.9%) also saw a decline, while non-containerised throughput of fruit, vegetables and other refrigerated cargo increased by 4.1%.

Roll-on/roll-off traffic dropped by 5.5%. While pressure on car terminals eased, this was due to reduced imports, not due to increased demand from customers. Throughput of transport equipment declined by 13.3%, high & heavy by 23.5%, trucks by 10.3%, and used cars by 42.6%. New car shipments, which surged in 2022 and 2023, fell by 11.4% in the first nine months of this year. Throughput of unaccompanied cargo (excluding containers) on RoRo vessels in Zeebrugge rose by 2.8%. The decline in traffic to and from the United Kingdom (-4.1%) was amply offset by an increase in throughput to and from Spain and Portugal (+35.7%), Scandinavia (+16.7%) and Ireland (+2.2%).

Throughput of dry bulk fell by 1.4%, mainly due to a sharp drop in throughput of coal (-55.3%). Indeed, dry bulk, excluding energy products such as coal and wood pellets, grew by 9.5%. Fertilisers, the largest product category in this segment, continued its growth (+30.6%) after a sharp decline in 2022 due to sanctions and high gas prices. Other building materials and non-ferrous ores also grew by 7.3% and 4.8%, respectively, while sand & gravel (+0.1%) and scrap (-0.7%) remained more or less stable.

Liquid bulk throughput fell by 2.5% after nine months, due to lower volumes of liquid fuels (-8.9%) and LNG (-10.2%). Diesel throughput (-23.1%) in particular declined due to weak demand, while LPG (+8.8%), fuel oil (+8.4%), naphtha (+2.9%) and gasoline (+2.3%) showed growth. The throughput of chemicals increased by 9.3%, partly due to the strong increase in the throughput of biofuels (+52.5%). Even without this effect, chemicals showed growth (+7%). Chemical gases (+9.5%) and basic chemicals (+8.6%) also showed positive trends. Despite this recovery, the European chemicals sector remains under pressure due to high costs for energy, raw materials and wages, combined with low global demand.

In the first nine months of 2024, Zeebrugge welcomed 412,774 cruise passengers (+17.5%) on 143 cruise ships, 10 cruise ships more than last year.

In the first nine months of 2024, 15,015 ocean-going vessels called at the port, down by 2%. The gross tonnage of these vessels fell by 4.8% to 472.45 million GT.

Focus on energy transition and industrial growth

Despite ongoing geopolitical and economic challenges, Port of Antwerp-Bruges’ growth is stabilising. The figures again underscore the resilience of the port, which in complex times continues to pioneer and invest in a future-proof port where sustainability and economic growth go hand in hand. The expansion of Zuidnatie, which started with the construction of a new warehouse for processing steel coils this summer, and the acquisition of Luik Natie by Lineage, confirm the port’s importance in specialist segments. The recently announced investments, such as Vioneo‘s fossil-free plastics production and Indaver’s Plastics-to-chemicals, which converts polystyrene (PS) and polyolefins (PO) into recycled naphtha, in turn strengthen the port’s position in the energy transition and sustainable innovation.

Port of Antwerp-Bruges will continue to focus on strengthening its infrastructure and offering sustainable logistics solutions that contribute to the industry’s efforts in CO₂ reduction and digitalisation. Following the installation of one of Europe’s largest public charging hubs for electric trucks in Antwerp, the initial foundations were laid in Zeebrugge for a truck park with charging infrastructure. In addition, the CHERISH2O project, which aims to purify and reuse industrial wastewater, is contributing to the port’s development as a ​ circular hub.

Jacques Vandermeiren, CEO Port of Antwerp-Bruges: “Despite the complex times in which we operate, with geopolitical tensions, rising energy prices and global competition, we are stabilising our growth, thanks in part to our strong position in container handling. Sailing around the Cape of Good Hope, cyberattacks and other challenges are forcing us to remain flexible and resilient. Along with our partners, we are continuing to build a future-proof port where innovation supports both sustainability and economic growth. Investments like those of Vioneo and Indaver reflect confidence in our port and in the future of European industry.”

The post Strong container throughput drives Port of Antwerp-Bruges growth despite challenging market conditions appeared first on Cargo Connexion.