National Strike in the Port of Antwerp

National Strike in the Port of Antwerp

On Tuesday, the national strike in Belgium has led to a complete standstill in the Port of Antwerp, severely impacting shipping operations. As a result, 25 vessels are waiting to depart the port, and 31 ships are stuck outside, unable to enter. This disruption is causing significant delays across the supply chain, and the economic repercussions are expected to reach into the millions.

The situation is further complicated by the impact on other transport sectors. Zeebrugge port, as well as both rail and air traffic, are also facing severe disruptions. Ships en route to Antwerp are either being forced to wait in the North Sea or are being rerouted to alternative ports.

Authorities predict it will take at least one to two days to clear the backlog, but the situation remains fluid as the national protest action against the federal government continues.

What This Means for Your Shipments:

– Delays in Departure: No vessels are currently departing from the Port of Antwerp.
– Delayed Arrival: Ships arriving at Antwerp may be delayed or rerouted to other ports.
– Extended Processing Times: Clearing the backlog of vessels is expected to take several days.

We advise our customers to be aware of potential delays and to consider alternative routes or ports if possible. We will continue to monitor the situation closely and keep you informed of any further developments.