The Port of Antwerp is insisting on a quick decision regarding additional space. In May 2018, more containers passed through this harbour than ever before. The Port Authority noted a record transhipment of one million TEU containers. This record month confirmed that the port is fast approaching its maximum container capacity.
The Port of Antwerp has grown for five years in a row now. In the first quarter of 2018, container traffic rose by a record 9,5%. This was compared to the first three months of 2017. The Port Authority has now noted a record month. In May, container traffic increased by 9,6%.
Jacques Vandermeiren, the Port Authority's CEO says, "This new record confirms our prediction. The harbour will experience a capacity shortage in the near future. The need for additional space is becoming increasingly urgent. This extra capacity is essential if we are to maintain our international leadership position. We also need to continue in our role as an important economic engine for Belgium."
Marc Van Peel, Port Councillor says, "We are pushing for the Government of Flanders to make a swift decision. This will be about where the necessary additional container space will be in the Port of Antwerp. They can count on us to work together with all parties involved. We want to contribute to the development of the harbour. The economic, environmental, and social factors are all of equal importance. Only together we can realize the proposed sustainable growth of our port. "
This growth is needed to guarantee direct and indirect jobs. The Belgian National Bank recently released economic figures. These confirm the port's role as Belguim's economic powerhouse. The Port of Antwerp generates EUR10.8 billion in direct added value. They are also good for EUR9.4 billion in indirect added value. Then, it supplies (direct and indirect) employment to 143.000 people. One in every 16 Belgians works in or for the Port of Antwerp.
Source: Port of Antwerp