Port of Antwerp-Bruges International

A proud moment for Port of Antwerp-Bruges International last week in Kuala Lumpur. Together with our partner PKNP Group, we unveiled the LuMIC Masterplan to a full house of 300+ attendees. From the visionary address by the Chief Minister of Perak to the insightful contributions from the EU ambassador Rafael Daerr and the Belgian Ambassador Peter Van Acker, the energy in the room confirmed what we believe: Perak’s future as a sustainable maritime-industrial hub is bright.   Attendees had the opportunity to discover our vision for the project and to learn more about the development of our Masterplan for Lumic. Together we presented the opportunities for a multipurpose terminal, a liquid terminal, green ship recycling and industrial parks. LuMIC isn’t just another project; it's Malaysia’s Global Gateway Flagship Project, enjoying strong support from the EU. A big thank you to the EU Commission and Delegations for enabling this study and being a valued partner in this journey. This study isn’t an endpoint, it’s the launchpad. We’re open for business and excited to connect with investors who share our passion for growth, sustainability, and long-term impact. Let’s shape the next chapter of LuMIC together. Also thank you to the other colleagues of PoABI: Philippe Droesbeke Michiel Heleven Dr. Johannes Schmidt Nele Voorspoels Alex Staring Aag Helewaut Joachim Lebbe Kamiel Schilders Louise van Kesteren Alexander De Feyter Paul Wauters Julie Tegenbos Manuela Garcia Zuluaga Ulysses Van droogenbroeck Nico S. Achille Sobry #LUMIC #Perak #EUGlobalGateway #Sustainability #InvestmentOpportunities #PublicPrivatePartnership #Malaysia #MaritimeIndustry #FutureReady

Today, we had the honour of welcoming Hon. Ambassador Mahmoud Thabit Kombo, Minister of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation of Tanzania, to Port of Antwerp-Bruges International (PoABI), in collaboration with Port of Antwerp-Bruges (POAB), and in presence of the EU Delegation to Tanzania. Colleagues Stefan Cassimon, Director Operations PoABI and Patrick Van Cauwenberghe, International Trade Networks Manager welcomed the delegation. Ambassador Christine Grau highlighted the importance of the partnership between the EU, TANZANIA PORTS AUTHORITY (TPA) and PoABI. The visit focused on international cooperation, sustainable port development, and strengthening the ties between Tanzanian Ports Authority and Port of Antwerp-Bruges International. An inspiring meeting filled with valuable discussions and forward-looking insights. Many thanks to all parties involved for this enriching exchange! colleagues poabi: Joke Van Steenbergen, Bart van Mol, Erwin Dickens & Dr. Johannes Schmidt #PortOfAntwerpBruges #Tanzania #InternationalRelations #SustainablePorts #Cooperation #GlobalConnections

Welcome Jill & Ann-Sophie! 👋 We’re thrilled to welcome two new colleagues to the Solution Sustainability team at Port of Antwerp-Bruges International! Jill Stabel joins us as an Analyst. With a background in strategy and transformation consulting, and holding Master’s degrees in Business Administration and International Relations & Diplomacy, Jill brings a sharp mindset and broad perspective to the team. She’s currently contributing to the port strategy in Tanzania and supporting the energy transition efforts on our flagship project in Cotonou. We’re excited to see the impact she’ll make with us! Ann-Sophie Paesen also joins as an Analyst. With a background in bioscience engineering, she combines technical expertise with a strong international and sustainability-oriented profile. She will be working on projects in Angola, Cotonou and Burundi. With their complementary experience, international mindset, and strong drive for sustainable change, they are a fantastic addition to our team. Welcome aboard, Jill and Ann-Sophie! #NewColleagues #Sustainability #Teamwork #PortDevelopment #GlobalImpact #PortofAntwerpBruges #WelcomeOnBoard

  🚢 Strengthening Partnerships & Boosting Trade in West Africa 🌍   This year marks the 60th anniversary of the Port Authority of Cotonou (PAC)—a key milestone in its journey as a regional trade hub and a gateway to West Africa. To celebrate this occasion, a delegation from Port of Antwerp-Bruges International (POABI) had the honor of participating in the anniversary events, including a conference and a gala dinner attended by high-level stakeholders such as Benin’s Minister of Transport, Living Environment, and Sustainable Development.   This celebration was not only a moment to reflect on past achievements but also an opportunity to look ahead at the future of port development and reinforce the strong partnership between PAC and POABI. Our collaboration is built on a shared vision of innovation, sustainability, and economic growth, and this commitment is reflected in key projects currently underway.   🚀 Expanding Infrastructure & Logistics Opportunities One of the major joint initiatives driving this transformation is the Africa Logistics Zone (ALZ)—a 50-hectare economic free zone within the port, developed as a strategic joint venture between PAC and POABI. Designed to optimize trade efficiency, attract global investment, and strengthen regional connectivity, ALZ serves as a hub for value-added logistics services. By streamlining operations and providing tailored solutions, we aim to enhance the competitiveness of businesses operating in the region.   🌱 Sustainability & Socio-Economic Impact Beyond infrastructure, our collaboration also focuses on social sustainability and workforce development. One of the key initiatives launched in this context is the Single Hiring Office, which centralizes employment opportunities and promotes fair and structured recruitment within the port community. This initiative reflects our dedication to creating local job opportunities, fostering social inclusion, and ensuring a more equitable and sustainable economic model.   With ongoing investments in safety, efficiency, and capacity-building, our partnership with PAC continues to evolve, paving the way for a more resilient, connected, and future-ready port ecosystem in West Africa. Together, we are committed to driving economic prosperity, trade facilitation, and sustainable growth in the region.   💡 Looking forward to even more milestones in the years ahead! colleagues POABI: Inge Taillieu,Vincent Willemse, Kathleen Reinehr and Kristof Waterschoot   #POABI #PortAutonomeDeCotonou #60Ans #AfricaLogisticsZone #TradeHub #PortDevelopment #Sustainability #LogisticsInnovation #EconomicGrowth #WestAfrica

Driving Trade Facilitation and innovation EN As a rapidly expanding port, Porto do Açu is making great strides in trade facilitation by implementing tools that enhance port operations and efficiency. Key initiatives include:   - Port Management Information System (PMIS) - Maritime Single Window (MSW) - Port Community System - Port Call Optimization   Through its partnership with Port of Antwerp-Bruges International (PoABI), Porto do Açu is strengthening its expertise in international frameworks that provide guidelines and data sets for implementing these tools.   Recently, Tim Michielsen from PoABI conducted a series of workshops to support Porto do Açu in this journey, sharing valuable insights and best practices.   #MaritimeInnovation #PortDevelopment #TradeFacilitation #PoABI #PortoDoAçu --------- PT Como um porto em rápida expansão, o Porto do Açu está a fazer grandes progressos na facilitação do comércio através da implementação de ferramentas que melhoram as operações portuárias e a eficiência. As principais iniciativas incluem:   - Sistema de Informação de Gestão Portuária (PMIS) - Janela Única Marítima (JUM) - Sistema de Comunidade Portuária ou "Port Community System" (PCS) - Otimização das escalas portuárias ("Port Call Optimization")   Através de sua parceria com o Porto de Antuérpia-Bruges Internacional (PoABI), o Porto do Açu está fortalecendo sua experiência em estruturas internacionais que fornecem diretrizes e conjuntos de dados para a implementação dessas ferramentas.   Recentemente, Tim Michielsen, da PoABI, conduziu uma série de workshops para apoiar o Porto do Açu nesta jornada, compartilhando informações valiosas e melhores práticas. #MaritimeInnovation #PortDevelopment #TradeFacilitation #PoABI #PortoDoAçu

Welcome aboard, Thierry, Bertie, and Kevin!   We are proud to welcome yet again experienced professionals to our team! Their expertise and passion for the maritime sector will be a great asset to our projects worldwide. Let’s introduce our three new colleagues:   Thierry Bellanger – Manager Thierry brings extensive experience in Vessel Traffic Services, gained as a VTSO and Traffic Controller in the Port of Antwerp-Bruges. With a degree in nautical sciences, a background in shipping, and over 30 years of experience in business sales and development across various industrial sectors, he adds valuable operational and commercial knowledge to our team.   Bertie Vandendorpe – Associate Manager Bertie is a civil engineer specialized in coastal and port construction. He has worked on impressive maritime infrastructure projects such as quay walls, jetties, dredging works, and bridges. With his expertise in managing large-scale projects—always prioritizing safety, planning, and budget—he is excited to contribute to POABI's innovative international projects.   Kevin Geerts – Expert Port Infrastructure Kevin has 20 years of experience in port operations, with a strong focus on training and prevention. His passion lies in process optimization and efficiency improvements, always striving for the highest quality and best results. Kevin will play a key role in our largest project in Cotonou and is already fully integrated into our operations in Suriname.   We are very excited to collaborate and learn from their expertise. Wishing you all the best, gentlemen!   #Welcome #NewColleagues #Maritime #PortConstruction #PortOperations #TeamExpansion #POABI

A New Chapter in Indo-Belgian Collaboration: MoUs Signed & Future Growth Ahead   Last week three colleagues from PoABI, Kristof Waterschoot (Managing Director of Port of Antwerp-Bruges International), Dirk De fauw (President of Port of Antwerp-Bruges International) and Achille Sobry (Regional lead Indian Subcontinent) participated in the Belgian Economic Mission to India, led by Her Royal Highness Princess Astrid.   During the mission Port of Antwerp-Bruges International and ASCELA signed a landmark MoU, marking a new chapter in maritime consultancy and infrastructure development in India.   This partnership will drive collaboration on key consultancy projects in the Indian maritime sector, leveraging PoABI’s global expertise and ASCELA’s local insights to enhance port operations, logistics, and supply chain efficiency. The signing of this MoU represents the first step in expanding PoABI’s presence in India’s port sector. Exciting times ahead!   On the final day we had the honor of co-hosting an event with DEME Group, which included a visit to the dredging vessel Congo River, followed by a high-level meeting and a visit to the JNPA- Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA).   The discussions were led by Shri Unmesh Sharad Wagh, Chairperson of JNPA- Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority, alongside a distinguished Belgian delegation, including HRH Princess Astrid, HE Maxime Prévot (Deputy Prime Minister & Minister of Foreign Affairs), and HE Matthias Diependaele (Minister-President of Flanders).   This mission underscores our dedication to fostering global partnerships, strengthening maritime cooperation, and driving innovation in port and logistics infrastructure.   #GlobalTrade #MoU #PortManagement #InternationalBusiness

Collaboration et croissance au port de Conakry   Chez Port of Antwerp-Bruges International (POABI), nous croyons en la puissance de la collaboration pour renforcer les ports à travers le monde. Le Port Autonome de Conakry, en Guinée, joue un rôle clé dans les flux commerciaux d'Afrique de l'Ouest et continue de se développer en tant que hub logistique stratégique. Grâce aux investissements dans les infrastructures, la digitalisation et les solutions durables, ce port se renforce comme une porte d’entrée essentielle vers la région. POABI est fier de tisser des liens avec des ports et partenaires internationaux afin d’optimiser l’efficacité et la durabilité des opérations portuaires. #POABI #PortOfAntwerpBruges #PortDeConakry #CoopérationMaritime #PortsDurables #Logistique #CommerceInternational

We are thrilled to share that Port of Antwerp-Bruges International recently engaged with key players in Nigeria’s maritime, port, and supply chain sectors, both public and private. A heartfelt thank you to the Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, National Inland Waterways Authority (NIWA) , Nigerian Shippers Council's (NSC) council, Sealink and the Governor of Imo State for their valuable time and insights. We also extend our gratitude to Greenview Terminal (Dangote Group) and SIFAX Group for their warm welcome and productive discussions. Special thanks to His Excellency, Ambassador of Belgium to Nigeria, Pieter Leenknegt, and the Nigerian-Belgian Chamber of Commerce for their support and hospitality. Unfortunately, we missed the opportunity to meet with the NPA this time, but we look forward to visiting them on our next trip. We are excited about the future developments and collaborations ahead! Our delegation included Taiwo Oluwatosin Olajide (Country Rep), Philippe Droesbeke, and Johan Dutoit. #Maritime #Port #SupplyChain #Nigeria #Collaboration #FutureDevelopments

ISO 27001 Training Information security is becoming increasingly crucial, especially for port platforms where essential data is exchanged. That’s why our colleagues Louis Deltour and Tim Michielsen from the Digital Business Analysis team at PoABI attended an intensive training on ISO 27001 standards this week. This training, organized by the globally accredited DNV, equips us to better support port authorities in implementing ISO 27001. The interactive sessions were engaging and practical, with plenty of exercises to truly master the material. 🚢 Port of Antwerp-Bruges International is ready to apply this expertise to strengthen information security in our customers’ ports! 🔒 #InformationSecurity #ISO27001 #PortSecurity #PoABI