The Port of Antwerp-Bruges has demonstrated resilience in a challenging global environment, concluding 2024 with a 2.3 percent growth in total throughput, amounting to 278 million tonnes. Despite geopolitical tensions, rising energy prices, and economic uncertainties, the port’s performance was bolstered by a significant increase in container throughput, reinforcing its crucial role in international trade and the energy transition.
Containers were the key driver of growth in 2024, with tonnage increasing by 8.9 percent and TEUs by 8.1 percent. Reefer container traffic rose by 9.2 percent, representing 8.6 percent of the port’s total container traffic. The port also expanded its market share in the Hamburg-Le Havre Range by 0.7 percentage points, reaching 30.6 percent during the first nine months of the year.
While container traffic thrived, other segments faced more turbulent conditions. The chemicals sector endured its toughest years since 2009, and industries like construction and automotive struggled with high energy costs and weak demand. Geopolitical instability, particularly in the Red Sea, further complicated international shipping with longer transit times and greater uncertainty.
Conventional general cargo remained stable, posting a slight 0.1 percent increase, driven by a 3.7 percent rise in iron and steel throughput, though other product categories declined. RoRo throughput contracted by 3.4 percent, largely due to a sharp 10.3 percent drop in auto throughput.
Dry bulk experienced modest growth of 0.4 percent, with coal throughput plummeting by 35.4 percent, offset by a 22.9 percent rise in fertilisers. Liquid bulk saw a 5.8 percent decline, driven by reduced demand for diesel (-22.3 percent) and LNG (-21.9 percent). However, chemicals in the liquid bulk category registered a robust 14.8 percent increase, boosted by biofuels, which surged by 60.1 percent.
In 2024, 20,195 seagoing vessels called at the Port of Antwerp-Bruges, marking a slight increase of 0.2 percent. The port’s Zeebrugge terminal welcomed 187 cruise ships and over 557,000 passengers, underscoring its growing role in cruise tourism.
The Port of Antwerp-Bruges has ambitious plans for 2025, aiming to further strengthen its position as a hub for international trade and energy transition. With its proven resilience and ability to adapt, the port is well-positioned to address emerging challenges and seize new opportunities in the global market.
For more information visit www.portofantwerpbruges.com
