Not since the 1970s have port towns like this had to deal with customs in their massive trade with Britain. But that could change on Brexit day on March 30, 2019. Britain and the EU are struggling to agree on the terms of business after that date, raising the chances of a sudden return of tariffs and border controls. The prospect of there being no deal is starting to unnerve companies and authorities, particularly in places like ports that operate on the front lines of global trade.
“It is scary,” says Marc Adriansens, managing director of the ICO car shipping company. “Now, all companies around here and on the continent, they start to be worried."
EU chief negotiator Michel Barnier is in London for the first formal Brexit negotiations since December's interim deal with the UK. He says he believes “a November deal is still possible”. It's sent the pound soaring, and generated a new wave of optimism about the coming negotiations.
What’s at stake on the ground, is visible during a check of the port by Kristian Vanderwaeren, the administrator-general of Belgian customs. Everything from engine parts to orange juice is lined up for transport to Britain, part of the $650 billion in goods and services traded between the continent and the United Kingdom every year.
Sfgate.com reports how Vanderwaeren plans to double the number of customs officers in Zeebrugge by hiring another 140. The IT system has been upgraded, scanning machines for customs checks have been bought, and more sniffer dogs will be made available.
