Industrial Action by Port Pilots Disrupts Shipping at Antwerp-Bruges

Maritime traffic at Belgium’s Port of Antwerp-Bruges has been severely disrupted due to a four-day industrial action by Flemish port pilots protesting against federal pension reforms, port authorities told Reuters on Wednesday.

The port, which normally handles 60 to 80 vessels a day, managed to process only 31 ships on Tuesday, officials said. Several ships faced delays or were left stranded, while others diverted to alternative destinations.

Port pilots—who play a vital role in guiding vessels through congested or hazardous waters—have been working to keep operations under partial control despite the strike.

Shipping company Maersk (MAERSKb.CO) said the walkout is affecting traffic at both Antwerp and Zeebrugge, adding that delays are expected to continue in the coming days.