Two of Northern Europe’s busiest ports, Rotterdam in the Netherlands and Antwerp, Bruges/Zeebrugge in Belgium, are currently experiencing major disruption due to strikes. These actions are creating vessel backlogs and slowing cargo flows across the region.
Rotterdam: Lashers Extend Strike Indefinitely
- On 8 October, lashers (the workers responsible for securing containers on vessels) launched a 48-hour strike at Rotterdam.
- The strike began at 15:15 local time and involved staff at International Lashing Services (ILS) and Matrans Marine Services.
- Without lashers, ships cannot be safely loaded or unloaded.
- By 9 October, vessel queues outside Rotterdam doubled from the usual 6–7 ships to around 13.
- Talks between union FNV and employers have so far failed, and the strike has now been extended indefinitely.
Belgium: Harbour Pilots Slow Down Operations
- Since October 5th, Flemish harbour pilots have been taking industrial action against planned pension reforms.
- Pilots are limiting services to office hours only, slowing vessel movements in Antwerp, Zeebrugge, and Ghent.
- Normally, Antwerp handles 60–80 vessels a day, but during the action this dropped to 31.
- As of 9 October, nearly 100 vessels were reported waiting to enter or leave Belgian ports.
Why It Matters
Rotterdam and Antwerp-Bruges are Europe’s key container gateways. With both disrupted at the same time:
- Vessel backlogs are building rapidly.
- Alternative ports such as Hamburg or Le Havre are likely to feel extra strain.
- Importers and exporters face rising costs for storage, demurrage, and missed delivery windows.
Looking Ahead
The situation remains fluid. Negotiations are ongoing, but until agreements are reached, knock-on effects across Northern Europe’s supply chain are expected to continue.
We will keep monitoring developments closely. If you need the latest updates for your shipments, please get in touch with our team directly.
Please note: This information is accurate as of 10 October 2025. The situation is developing and subject to change.