Update - 25 November: Belgium's strike action expected to interrupt Antwerp port operations

Port of Antwerp faces potential standstill as rail and road disruptions threaten supply chain continuity

Update - 25 November: Belgium's strike action expected to interrupt Antwerp port operations

Update: 25.11.2025

 

As an update to the current strikes in Belgium, the labour action is now expected to significantly disrupt logistics operations at ports.

 

On 26 November, actions targeting nautical services at the Port of Antwerp pose a high risk of halting vessel movements, potentially blocking entry and exit.

 

Rail transport will remain severely limited, and road transport may also face delays.

 

These disruptions are likely to extend lead times for import and export shipments and impact container handling across the region.

 

 

Original article: 12.11.2025

 

Belgium’s rail network is set to halt for three days later this month as unions escalate opposition to the Federal Government’s policies.

The strike will run from 22:00 local time on 23 November until the same time on 26 November.

 

The autonomous train drivers’ union, SACT, confirmed on Monday that it will join the action, aligning with the country’s three major rail unions.

 

This move forms part of a broader campaign against what unions describe as an “authoritarian” stance by the government.

 

The rail stoppage coincides with a nationwide protest organised by FGTB, CSC and CGSLB. These unions have called for a three-day coordinated strike to challenge budget cuts, among other issues.

Union announcements outline a phased approach:

  • Rail services will strike on Monday, 24 November
  • A walkout across all public services on Tuesday, 25 November
  • A national strike is expected to conclude on Wednesday, 26 November

 

For the latest port and vessel statuses or situation updates, please refer to the seaexplorer alert map.

Source: Brussels Times, Kuehne+Nagel
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