The Port of Antwerp-Bruges faced challenges in 2023 amid geopolitical tensions and slowing global economic growth, resulting in a 5.5% decline in overall throughput to 271 million tonnes of cargo compared to the previous year. Despite this, the market share of the container segment in the Hamburg-Le Havre range increased, reaching 30.2% in 2023, thanks to the added value from the merger. To ensure its role as a global port in the future, the port is prioritizing sustainable growth and planning an ambitious investment program over the next decade.
The weak global economy and lower demand for commodities led to a 5.9% decline in container throughput (tonnes) and a 7.2% decline in TEU for the port of Antwerp-Bruges in 2023. Notably, the port’s market share within the Hamburg-Le Havre range increased by 0.6% points. Liquid cargo handling fell 2.1%, impacted by fluctuations in fuels, while the chemicals sector saw an 8.1% decline. Despite the challenges, roll-on/roll-off traffic volumes held up well, with a slight decline of 2.1%.
Zeebrugge had a record year in 2023, welcoming 169 cruise ships and 953,048 passenger movements. In response to a 4.2% decline in the number of ships calling at the port of Antwerp-Bruges, the port is focusing on sustainable growth through a €2.9 billion investment program over the next decade. This program includes infrastructure development such as the quay wall for the Europa Terminal, as well as energy transition initiatives such as the Warmtenet Antwerpen Noord project and hydrogen bunkering.
The port intends to introduce innovative vessels such as the Methatug (the world’s first methanol-powered tug) and the electric RSD. In addition, the port is developing onshore power plants and collaborating with industry to reduce CO2 emissions through CO2 capture. Plans for construction of the CCS terminal are expected to begin this year. The overall vision is to strengthen the port of Antwerp-Bruges as a sustainable and future-proof global gateway.
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