Belgium’s transport and logistics sector is once again grappling with major disruptions as a nationwide strike, organized by the ABVV-ACOD union, impacts key infrastructure across the country.
This is the third major strike since March to affect national operations, with the latest action targeting the public sector in protest against the De Wever government’s austerity measures and reform plans.
As of 09:15 on Tuesday, the Port of Antwerp-Bruges—the country’s largest—reported significant delays, especially at its lock infrastructure. Fourteen seagoing vessels are currently waiting to enter the port, while eleven are delayed in departing. Although inland navigation remains operational, it is limited due to reduced lock availability.
Towage services are operating at roughly 70% capacity, and pilotage operations have also been affected. While shipping assistance services have not yet caused widespread disruption on their own, the situation at the locks is driving congestion and slowing down port activity.
With no resolution in sight, authorities are warning of continued disruptions and delays in the coming weeks.
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