Bunkering unaffected by farmer protests in Antwerp

Farmers’ protests in and around Antwerp port are causing major disruptions in the area, but bunkering is going ahead as normal. 

PHOTO: Huge container ship being unloaded with cranes at a container terminal in Antwerp, Belgium. Getty Images

At the moment, filter blockages have been confirmed at several locations in Antwerp port, a spokesperson from the port authority told ENGINE. 

These disruptions are likely to last the entire day today, the spokesperson added.

A list of blocked locations has been published on the Antwerp port website: Left Bank (Hollands Complex at Waaslandhaven Noord exit R2, Waaslandhaven Zuid), Stabroek exit Antwerpsebaan (N180) and Kastelweg. 

The port is attempting to prevent disruptions, urging drivers to keep an emergency lane open to traffic. In a post on the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), the Port of Antwerp-Bruges posted: "At several places in Antwerp (filter) blockades are hindering traffic. The police call for a rescue lane to be provided at all times. Truck drivers are asked to use the right lane so that car traffic can at least use the other lane." 

Farmers have been protesting across Europe demanding better working conditions and pay. Like Belgium, several other countries including Poland, France, Spain, Germany and the Netherlands have witnessed demonstrations of a similar kind. 

Meanwhile, bunker availability is currently normal in Rotterdam and Antwerp, according to a trader. With few suppliers in Amsterdam, lead times may be slightly longer.

In the ARA hub more in general, lead times of 4-6 days are recommended for HSFO and 2-4 days are advised for LSMGO. VLSFO requires slightly longer lead times of 5-7 days, a trader told ENGINE. 

By Manjula Nair  

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