2 June 2026
Antwerp port cluster bets on infrastructure and innovation
The Flemish government (Belgium) approved the second tidal dock of the Extra Container Capacity Antwerp (ECA) project, the Container Cluster Left Bank (CCL). The five new berths are expected to boost port capacity from 15 to 22 million containers a year. Estimated at €2.9 billion, the first berth could be operational by 2034, with full completion planned for 2042. The Province of Antwerp launched an Innovation Fund granting up to €1 million per project to bridge research and industrial application. It targets ports and logistics, chemicals and life sciences, construction and agribusiness. Projects must develop new processes, circular solutions or technological applications and strengthen regional economic activity. Applications open on June 1st, 2026