The Port of Antwerp-Bruges Authority welcomed the adoption of the new EU port strategy, noting the important role of ports as key industrial and logistics hubs. The port emphasized that such hubs serve as multifunctional industrial hubs and are a vital link in European supply chains and production processes. A significant portion of industry is located directly in or near ports and relies on stable import and export flows, so European port policy must be closely aligned with the EU’s overall industrial strategy.
The Port of Antwerp-Bruges also welcomed the focus on enhancing the competitiveness of European ports. The authority also emphasized the importance of maintaining an open and attractive investment climate. International investment plays a key role in the development of port infrastructure and industrial activity, so new EU initiatives related to security issues should not lead to excessive regulation and additional administrative pressure on investors.
The port also noted the strategy’s importance for the energy transition. Ports are seen as important energy hubs, and proposed measures to expedite and simplify permitting procedures for strategic projects could spur faster investment in decarbonization, infrastructure development, and innovative projects. Furthermore, the port supported increased cooperation on supply chain security and emphasized the importance of European financial instruments, such as the Connecting Europe Facility, which remain key for investment in infrastructure, digitalization, energy transition, and military mobility projects.