The Port of Antwerp will be impacted by strike action this week as swathes of workers have voted to walk out, according to Port Technology.
Action will begin from Belgian trade unions starting at 06:00 am on Wednesday 9 November, and ending at 06:00 am on Thursday 10 November.
Inchcape Shipping Services wrote that the socialist union is calling a general strike, while the Christian and liberal unions will organise protests including staff meetings, strikes, and demonstrations.
Workers of pilots, tugs, and other port personnel will down tools at the port.
Shipping giant Maersk wrote in a recent advisory: “During this time, the terminal will be closed for operation and no inland deliveries or pick ups will be possible until the end of the strike action.
“Maersk teams are also aware of the potential strike action from the side of pilots, lock staff, and tugs. Our teams are keeping a close eye on how the situation develops and will keep you informed should any further strike action go ahead.”
Northern Europe has been rocked throughout the year due to strike action at ports including Liverpool and Felixstowe in the UK; and major staff action at German ports through the summer.
Port of Antwerp-Bruges is the second largest port in Europe, with more than 300 liner services to more than 800 destinations, thereby ensuring worldwide connectivity. Every year, we handle around 290 million tonnes of international maritime cargo and we are home to Europe’s largest integrated chemical cluster.
The port employs, directly and indirectly, a total of around 164,000 people and generates added value of more than €21 billion. As such, it is an important lifeline for the Belgian economy.
