Traffic congestion increases, auto transport speed decreases in Antwerp-Bruges due to tariff disorder

The port of Antwerp-Bruges in Belgium is currently grappling with ongoing congestion issues, with no new information provided on the matter. This congestion, a persistent issue at the terminals, is driven by a combination of logistical challenges and market developments.

Traffic at the port has seen a rise, with growth in truck, high & heavy equipment, and second-hand vehicle volumes offsetting the decline in new car shipments. However, the port reported a 15.9% decrease in passenger cars and vans exported in the first six months of the year, along with a 31.5% drop in trucks and high & heavy vehicles. There has been a clear decline in vehicle exports since May.

The congestion and the decline in vehicle exports can be attributed, in part, to tariffs implemented by US President Donald Trump. In May, tariffs of up to 27.5% on imports of vehicles to the US were enforced, and tariffs of a similar magnitude on automotive parts were also implemented. These tariffs have led OEMs and logistics providers to reroute deliveries of vehicles to avoid the highest tariff fees.

Despite these challenges, the port's CEO, Jacques Vandermeiren, emphasised the port's strong trade relationship with the US, confirming its role as a transatlantic gateway to Europe. He also highlighted the growth in container traffic as a sign of resilience despite the congestion in north-west Europe.

Vandermeiren also addressed the need for additional container infrastructure due to current capacity pressures and operational challenges at the port. The leadership responsible for expanding the container infrastructure is typically the CEO or Managing Director of the Port Authority Antwerp-Bruges.

However, the port did not provide new information on the tariffs implemented by US President Donald Trump or the rerouting of deliveries by OEMs and logistics providers. If a trade agreement is reached between the EU and the US by August 1, it could restore greater certainty and predictability in the supply chain.

Roro traffic at the port edged up by 1.4%, providing a slight positive note amidst the ongoing challenges. The port continues to serve as a vital hub for trade and transportation, and efforts to address the congestion and related issues are ongoing.

Traffic congestion increases, auto transport speed decreases in Antwerp-Bruges due to tariff disorder