US tariff policies lead to severe congestion at European ports

ANTWERP, Belgium: European ports, including Antwerp-Bruges, are facing severe congestion due to U.S. tariff policies, rising geopolitical tensions, and climate change, CEO of the Port of Antwerp-Bruges in Belgium said on Wednesday.

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Ship wait times at the Port of Antwerp have increased from 32 to 44 hours.
US tariff uncertainty on Chinese goods previously caused shipment rerouting.
Suspension of tariffs triggered a rush in exports, overwhelming European ports.

According to Jacques Vandermeiren, the CEO, the average waiting time for ships at the Port of Antwerp has increased from 32 hours at the end of March to 44 hours by mid-May.

Several other ports in Europe are facing similar issues. Previously, uncertainty over U.S. tariffs on Chinese goods caused delays and rerouting of shipments.

After the suspension of additional tariffs on China, there has been a surge in cargo volume as companies rush to expedite exports, which leads to port congestion.