Port of Antwerp-Bruges handled 133.9 million tonnes of maritime cargo in the first half of 2026, a decline of 2.4% compared with the same period last year. Despite geopolitical tensions, trade conflicts, operational disruptions and a difficult economic environment, the decrease remained relatively limited.
Key takeaways:
- Total cargo throughput decreased by 2.4% to 133.9 million tonnes.
- RoRo traffic increased by 5.9%, while bulk cargo remained relatively stable (-1.3%).
- Container throughput fell by 1.5% in TEU and 3.6% in tonnes, mainly due to weaker Western European exports.
- Exports of full containers declined by 5.7%.
- The port maintained its market share in container traffic despite operational challenges and disruptions.
- Geopolitical developments and shifting trade patterns continue to reshape cargo flows.
- Port management highlighted the importance of ongoing investments in capacity, accessibility, infrastructure and sustainable logistics to strengthen long-term competitiveness.
