Merger negotiations started between the ports of Antwerp and Zeebrugge

The port authorities of Antwerp and Zeebrugge - two of Flanders' four ports - have given the green light to start negotiations for a possible merger (in stages).

 

 

 

The port authorities of Antwerp and Zeebrugge had initiated discussions on strengthening their cooperation and synergies since the beginning of 2018. These discussions resulted in a joint study of the complementarity and economic soundness achieved by consulting firms. The study assessed the current forms of cooperation and indicates that Antwerp and Zeebrugge are very complementary and face the same challenges.

 

 

 

The study points out that intensified cooperation will also enable ports to respond more quickly and effectively to future opportunities such as economies of scale, energy transition, innovation and digitization. In addition, customers from both ports are also in favor of increased cooperation between Antwerp and Zeebrugge. Cooperation can produce win-win results for both ports.

 

 

 

The 2 port authorities are ready to officially start negotiations for a possible merger (in stages). The whole process should last about 2 years.

 

 

 

Dirk De Fauw, President of the Port of Zeebrugge: "We have been discussing with the port of Antwerp for some time now to see how we can work more closely together to reinforce each other." The ambition of our two port authorities is to form a sustainable port with a complete offer from A to Z. Based on the growing trust and positive results of the research report, we are starting formal discussions with our colleagues in the port of Antwerp. "