Archive · 12 Oct 2026
Flanders Builds Ports as Europe’s Gateway, Minister Says
Flanders is a region in Belgium with about 7 million people.
Its leaders built ports to serve customers and businesses across Europe, not only people who live in Flanders.
The Port of Antwerp-Bruges moves a very large amount of cargo each year.
Antwerp is known for its chemical industries, and Zeebrugge handles many vehicles and liquefied natural gas.
Annick De Ridder said ports need to change as the world’s energy and business needs change.
She said ports can also become energy hubs.
She believes countries can find opportunities by working with trusted partners.
She named India as a possible important partner for Europe and pointed to the India-EU trade deal.
Flemish Mobility Minister Annick De Ridder said Flanders built its ports to serve Europe’s wider market, not just its own population of about 7 million.
Port of Antwerp-Bruges is Europe’s second-largest port and handles more than 270 million tonnes of cargo annually.
Antwerp is a major petrochemical hub, while Zeebrugge is a leading centre for vehicle handling and liquefied natural gas.
De Ridder said ports must diversify and adapt, including by developing as energy hubs and cooperating with like-minded partners.
She described India as a potential major European ally and said the India-EU trade deal creates opportunities for both sides.
- Who
- Flemish Mobility Minister Annick De Ridder.
- What
- She described Flanders’ port strategy and called for diversification and stronger partnerships, including with India.
- When
- At Sagarmanthan 2026.
- Where
- At Sagarmanthan 2026; the discussion concerned Flanders’ ports in Belgium.
- Why
- To explain how the ports serve Europe’s wider hinterland and why ports must adapt to changing economic and energy demands.
- Flanders population
- About 7 million
- Port
- Port of Antwerp-Bruges
- European port ranking
- Europe’s second-largest port
- Annual cargo
- More than 270 million tonnes
- Antwerp
- Home to Europe’s largest integrated petrochemical cluster, according to the article
- Zeebrugge
- A leading hub for vehicle handling and liquefied natural gas
- Potential partner
- India; De Ridder said the India-EU trade deal presents a major opportunity