Just as the triangle is the strongest shape, the Port of Antwerp’s three-dimensional development strategy has helped it to become Europe’s largest integrated maritime, logistics and industrial hub. The port’s ‘Three Pillars’ model provides both resilience during global downturns and sustainable growth. In 2014 the port handled 199 million tonnes, and traffic is expected to reach 265 million tonnes by 2020.
For more than two centuries the Port of Antwerp’s growth has been based mainly on its location in the heart of Europe – 80km inland from the North Sea – and its proximity to Europe’s main centres of production and consumption. Today, 60% of European purchasing power lies within 500km of Antwerp.
Strategic development
For a port the right location is necessary but not sufficient to ensure long-term success. Of course other factors such as facilities and efficiency are important too, and will carry a port along nicely as markets and trade grow. But it is strategy that takes a port to the next level.
The Port of Antwerp’s clear and distinctive three pillars are maritime, logistical and industrial development; and this is supported by sustained, balanced public and private investment in all three areas.
The autonomous public body, Antwerp…
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