Major disruptions take over the Port of Antwerp-Bruges ahead of a new national strike 

A new national strike has been announced in Belgium for March 12, but workers at the maritime Port of Antwerp-Bruges, one of the most important points of entry into the European market,  have begun actions in advance. 

Sea pilots have starred in trade union action at the Zeebrugge Traffic Centre, fully suspending all inbound and outbound traffic for shipping. 

The port authority is also reporting ongoing obstruction at the Wandelaar pilot station (LKW). As a result, sea-going vessels can only enter and leave via the North pilot station with Dutch pilots, as part of the Flemish fleet is also taking part in the strike actions.

The Port of Antwerp-Bruges braces for a new national strike

The impact for the port is currently estimated at 21 inbound vessels with no clear transit prospect, and two inbound vessels that are planned or already underway. 

For outbound traffic, the port authority is reporting 18 vessels with no departure prospects, and three vessels with planned transit plans or already underway.

On its website, the Port of Antwerp-Bruges said it’s monitoring the situation closely and says it will provide updates as they occur. 

This is a developing story… 

*All images courtesy of Port of Antwerp-Bruges

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