Port of Antwerp-Bruges Sees Decline in Goods in H1 2026

The Port of Antwerp-Bruges, against a backdrop of geopolitical tensions, trade conflicts, and operational disruptions, context handled 133.9 million tons of maritime goods in the first half of 2026, a decrease of 2.4% compared to the same period last year. While RoRo grew (+5.9%) and bulk remained virtually stable (-1.3%), the decrease was primarily situated in the general cargo segment, with container handling being the main factor. At the same time, the Port of Antwerp-Bruges maintained its market share in container handling and continued to invest in additional capacity, efficient infrastructure, and sustainable growth.

Container traffic under pressure due to exceptional disruptions

Container throughput was under pressure in the first half of 2026 and was the main cause of the decline in total cargo throughput. Expressed in TEU, throughput fell by 1.5% compared to an exceptionally strong first half of 2025; in tons, the decline amounted to 0.6%. Exports of full containers, in particular, lagged behind (-5.7%), reflecting the weak export position of the Western European economy. At the same time, the throughput of empty containers increased (+13.7%), pointing to a growing imbalance between imports and available export cargo.

The downturn was exacerbated by exceptional operational disruptions. A four-day strike