The ports of Antwerp and Zeebrugge join forces

Port
The city of Antwerp and the City of Bruges have reached an agreement to unify their respective ports. Like this, it will become the world’s first port to reconcile economy, people and climate.

© copyright: Port of Antwerp Bruges

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The cities of Antwerp and Bruges have reached an agreement to unify their respective ports. The Port of Antwerp-Bruges aims to become the world’s first port to reconcile economy, people and climate.

A world port of the future

The two-city agreement marks the start of a unification process that is expected to take a year to finalise. Once completed, the ports will operate under the name ‘Port of Antwerp-Bruges’: a world port of the future in the making.

This unification creates a new world port with potential and impact: we are complementary and put ourselves on the world map.

Jacques Vandermeiren, CEO, Port of Antwerp

 

Innovation, digitalization and energy transition

Port of Antwerp-Bruges will be able to respond more effectively to the market and will expand the digital knowledge already present in both ports, building more towards a Smart Port. As a result, it will grow into a digitised port that will improve its performance and economic competitiveness through the Internet of Things, automation and big data.

Moreover, both ports will also be able to strengthen their position within the global supply chain. It allows them to continue their course towards sustainable growth and contribute to a circular economy.

The timing is exceptionally exciting: the port plays an important role in keeping our economy afloat in the imminent energy transition.


Pascal de Buck, CEO Fluxys
 

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International assets

This unification increases its standing with international players. Port of Antwerp-Bruges becomes a world port and acquires the status of 'main gate' to the European market. In addition, all business activities will become easier for international customers: they will be better connected with Central Europe.

Jacques Vandermeiren, Port of Antwerp’s CEO proudly states: “Thanks to the complementarity of both ports, we create a synergy of the individual ecosystems and the current dynamic growth: this unified port becomes much larger than the sum of two strong ports. As a result, Port of Antwerp-Bruges is in a stronger position to tackle crises such as the corona crisis, but also in the face of the unclear consequences of the Brexit.”

As a unified port, both platforms can create a complementary effect with their years of experience in industry, logistics and maritime activities.


Jacques Vandermeiren, CEO Port of Antwerp

Storage

The unification of both ports showcases the advantages regarding container processing. Port of Antwerp-Bruges can solve the growing need for warehousing in a reliable and forward-looking way. The wider action radius makes it easier to spread storage needs and enjoy the benefits from both ports.

The present DNA and the location and industrial activities make both ports highly complementary. A perfect match!


Tom Hautekiet, CEO Port of Zeebrugge

 

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Port of Antwerp Bruges

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