The Port of Antwerp-Bruges reported a 2.4% decline in total cargo throughput for the first half of 2026, handling 133.9 million tonnes compared to the same period last year, according to an emailed statement from the port authority reported by Ship & Bunker.
The drop was largely attributed to weaker container volumes, which fell 1.5% in TEU terms and 3.6% by tonnage. Exports of full containers were particularly hard hit, dropping 5.7%, as reported by Ship & Bunker.
Strikes and Oil Spill Add to Disruption
According to Ship & Bunker, the port authority pointed to operational disruptions in March and June caused by strikes, along with an oil spill at Deurganck Dock in April, as key factors behind the decline. Combined, these incidents are estimated to have cost the port around 260,000 TEU in lost throughput.
Middle East Tensions and Weaker US Trade
Middle East tensions also played a role in the reduced volumes, Ship & Bunker reports. Imports from the Persian Gulf fell sharply by 57%, while LNG shipments from Qatar dropped 66% following the arrival of the final cargo in March.
Trade with the United States also softened during the period. Container exports to the US declined 16.5%, while imports from the US fell 10.4%, according to the report.
Other Cargo Segments Show Resilience
Despite the overall dip, not all cargo categories suffered. Ship & Bunker notes that RoRo traffic increased by 5.9%, supported by stronger vehicle and unaccompanied cargo volumes. Dry bulk cargo also posted growth, rising 2.2% during the first half of the year.
The port authority stated that it maintained its container market share throughout the period and continues to invest in expanding capacity and infrastructure, as reported by Ship & Bunker.
Does this matter to you?
For those monitoring trade flows through Northern Europe, the reported decline in Persian Gulf imports and Qatari LNG shipments may be a relevant data point when assessing regional cargo patterns tied to Middle East developments. Vessel operators and charterers engaged in container trades between Antwerp-Bruges and the US may also want to note the reported softening in bilateral trade volumes. Beyond these specific segments, the source material does not provide further detail on broader implications for bunkering demand or port operations, and any additional impact for Gulf Bunkering’s audience is not yet clear from the available reporting.
Gulf Bunkering does not provide operational or security guidance. This article is for informational purposes only. Operators should consult flag state authorities, P&I clubs, and relevant advisories for decisions relating to transit planning.
Sources: Ship & Bunker
