One of Europe’s largest ports blocked due to strike

Transport companies should brace for major disruptions in Belgium, as a nationwide strike has brought road and sea traffic to a near standstill most notably suspending all shipping to and from the Port of Antwerp. The strike, backed by Belgium’s two largest trade unions socialist ABVV/FGTB and Christian ACV/CSC is a continuation of the March 31 protest against the government’s proposed pension reforms, cuts to unemployment benefits, and reduced funding for public services.

According to local media, around 40 vessels are currently stranded, either awaiting entry or departure at the Port of Antwerp. The Zandvliet shipping traffic centre began suspending operations on Monday afternoon in anticipation of today’s action. Inland navigation has also come to a halt, impacting the usual flow of over 100 ships daily. While Antwerp is paralyzed, the nearby Port of Zeebrugge remains operational with maritime traffic continuing as normal for now.

The strike has extended to the skies as well. Brussels Airport has suspended all departures, with half of its arrivals cancelled. Even more severe disruptions are reported at Charleroi Airport, where all flights both incoming and outgoing have been grounded.

Authorities anticipate that transport operations may not fully return to normal until Thursday.