On October 14, Belgium was hit by a nationwide strike that brought air and port operations to a near standstill. The strike involved airport security staff, public transportation workers, sanitation crews, energy workers, and port employees. It was organized by several major labor unions demanding higher wages, pension reforms, and compensation for rising inflation.

Brussels International Airport and Charleroi Airport were heavily affected, with mass flight cancellations and severe disruption in ground handling and baggage services. Thousands of passengers were stranded or faced significant delays.

At the same time, the Port of Antwerp-Bruges — one of Europe’s most critical logistics hubs — also suffered operational setbacks. Approximately 188 vessels were reported waiting to enter or leave the port, with overall operations running at around 70% capacity. The transport of essential goods, including jet fuel and diesel, was significantly delayed.

This large-scale strike is part of a broader wave of labor unrest sweeping across Europe this autumn. Similar union-led actions are being discussed in France and Italy, raising concerns over potential regional disruptions. Analysts warn that prolonged congestion and shipment delays could have a ripple effect on energy supplies and cross-border manufacturing chains throughout Western Europe.

Frequent red lights on Europe's logistics network have introduced new uncertainties to the global supply chain. In response to frequent strikes at European ports, Hanyue International has implemented a multi-port, multi-route, and multi-modal logistics strategy to avoid over-reliance on a single channel. Hanyue International will closely monitor the developments of the strikes and proactively establish alternative markets and backup supply chains to maintain flexibility. By optimizing market presence and pre-designing alternative solutions, shippers will maintain flexibility and resilience amidst these fluctuations. For the latest information or customized response plans, please contact our customer service.