Record container throughput has enabled the Port of Antwerp to limit the overall decline in throughput in 2020.

Container throughput achieved growth of 1.3% compared with 2019. The Port of Antwerp's total throughput in 2020 amounted to 231m metric tonnes of cargo, a fall of 3.1% compared with the previous year.

“Despite a year dominated by coronavirus, with several difficult months and cancelled sailings, container throughput once again saw higher volumes since July. As a result, the 12 million TEU mark was exceeded for the first time in 2020, equating to growth of 1.3% compared with 2019,” said the port.

Breakbulk down

Both coronavirus and the increasing protectionism as a result of global trade tensions had a markedly negative impact on breakbulk goods flows in 2020, resulting in a 16,3% decrease in total throughput compared with 2019.

There was a 17% decrease in dry bulk. This decrease is due to the growing supply of green energy and reduced demand for coal and ores from the steel sector. Liquid bulk also fell by a total of 4.2%.

In 2020, 13,655 seagoing vessels called at Antwerp, representing a 5.1% decrease compared with 2019.

Sustainability progress

In 2020, the Port of Antwerp made progress towards greener energy, digitalisation, and mobility through various projects. The business plan for the coming year continues to build on the 2018-2020 business plan with its three strategic priorities of sustainable growth, targeted transition, and resilience.

Mercator Media’s 2021 Coastlink conference will be hosted at the Port of Antwerp.