The annual turnover of the Belgian merchant navy, including dredging and towage, amounts to € 8,140, with an added value of € 2,488 million. In terms of employment, our industry generates                  16, 242 FTE.  

However, contributing to overall economic performance is by no means the sole priority of Belgian shipping companies.  

Belgian shipowners take their responsibility seriously in the public debate on the environment and climate change, as evidenced by their investment in innovative technologies reducing shipping-generated emissions.  

Against the background of yet another “challenging year” with respect to freight prices, the investments made show confidence in the future of Belgium’s shipping industry. 

The professionalism characterising the cooperation with the Belgian shipping authorities and the trade unions has contributed to our success story and we are fully confident that our future cooperation will continue along the same professional lines. 

In 2018 as well the expansion of Belgium’s fleet has continued, with new vessels entering service with Exmar, CMB, Euronav, DEME and Durot. 

CMB received the “Port of Antwerp Sustainability Award” and the “Dredger of the Year Award” went to DEME. 

Finally we wish to thank the Belgian Navy for their unabating commitment to the struggle against piracy. 

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