Rotterdam & Antwerp-Bruges Call for Immediate Action on EU Industry Strategy The Port of Rotterdam and Port of Antwerp-Bruges are urging swift execution of the Clean Industrial Deal, a European Commission initiative aimed at strengthening industrial competitiveness while driving the green transition. With growing geopolitical pressures, they emphasize that now is the time to implement the proposed measures.
The CEOs of both ports, Boudewijn Siemons (Rotterdam) and Jacques Vandermeiren (Antwerp-Bruges), report that major industrial players are reconsidering their presence and investments in Europe. They stress that there’s no single solution—only a combination of strategic actions will ensure the long-term viability of European industry.
The European Commission has urged national governments to act quickly on energy pricing, infrastructure coordination, and regulatory adjustments—key challenges for companies operating within the Antwerp-Rotterdam-Rhine-Ruhr industrial corridor, one of Europe’s largest industrial hubs and a global leader in chemicals. The ports agree that Europe’s strategy must align with national initiatives.
Energy Costs Pressure
Recognizing that energy prices dictate industrial competitiveness, the Commission’s Action Plan for Affordable Energy aims to deliver tangible effects as early as 2025. The ports see this as a crucial step, but emphasize the need for targeted measures to reduce investment risks in renewable energy production and consumption.
Hydrogen’s Key Role
Both ports welcome the recognition of hydrogen as a critical element in Europe’s decarbonization efforts. However, local production alone will not suffice. Large-scale imports are essential, and to facilitate this, the EU must urgently revise its definitions and criteria for “renewable hydrogen” to stimulate the market.
Infrastructure as the Backbone of Transition
The ports support the European Commission’s focus on industrial interconnectivity and expanded energy infrastructure. The Industrial Decarbonisation Accelerator Act, designed to simplify permitting processes, is a significant development. Strategic investments in energy networks connecting industrial clusters are essential for importing, producing, distributing, and storing low-carbon energy across Europe.
Strengthening Industry Through Collaboration
The Commission’s commitment to working closely with industrial clusters was underscored at the Antwerp Industry Summit, marking one year since the Antwerp Declaration. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and other officials met with 200 industry executives, including the CEOs of both ports, to discuss the future of European industry.
Both Port of Rotterdam and Port of Antwerp-Bruges are positioned at the heart of Europe’s energy and cargo supply chains. Their leaders advocate for an approach focused on strengthening industrial clusters and supply chains, rather than prioritizing specific regions or sectors. By deepening cross-border cooperation, the ports aim to spearhead the transition to a greener and more resilient European industry.
CEO Reactions
Boudewijn Siemons, CEO of Port of Rotterdam Authority, emphasizes the urgency of maintaining Europe’s industrial base while advancing sustainability: “We are heavily investing in large-scale transition projects, but companies must also be able to invest in the new economy. A strong and consistent industrial policy from the EU and national governments is vital.”
Jacques Vandermeiren, CEO of Port of Antwerp-Bruges, welcomes the initiative but insists on concrete action: “The Clean Industrial Deal is a vital step forward. Now, we need clear, targeted measures to give businesses the confidence to invest in a competitive and sustainable future.”
As both ports ramp up collaborations with industry partners and policymakers, they continue exploring new infrastructure solutions to support the energy transition and secure Europe’s industrial leadership.
