Pilot strike causes delays at Antwerp and Zeebrugge ports

A.P. Moller-Maersk (Maersk) has been notified that the Professional Association of Pilots (BVL/Loodsenfront) commenced industrial action on 5 October 2025.

This action is in response to dissatisfaction with recent federal pension reforms.

Flemish pilotage services will operate strictly during office hours, 08:00 to 17:00.

While efforts are being made to schedule shipping operations efficiently, significant delays to vessel arrivals and departures at Antwerp and Zeebrugge are expected in the coming days.

Maersk is closely monitoring the situation and working with operational partners to reduce disruption where possible; however, the situation remains beyond Maersk’s control and may affect supply chains.

In November 2024, Maersk discovered that three out of four European shippers had suffered supply chain interruptions in the previous 12 months, with more than half experiencing major financial implications.

More recently, Maersk was informed of strike action by lashing companies at the Port of Rotterdam.