Antwerp 17th in ranking of maritime cities in the world

How BDO can unlock Antwerp’s potential as a global port city

In collaboration with DNV, Menon Economics published a ranking of the thirty leading maritime cities in the world. With Antwerp ending up in seventeenth place. 

Becoming a leading maritime city

The results show that simply having a big port is not enough to finish high on the list. In the  ranking, analysers also considered several other aspects such as:

  • shipping
  • finance & law
  • technology
  • transports & logistics services
  • attractiveness & competitiveness. 

This analysis shows that Antwerp shows strong potential in the pillars finance & law and technology, but still lags behind major players in shipping and attractiveness & competitiveness.

The challenges of the maritime sector

In recent years, global challenges have caused tension within the maritime sector. First, there was the Covid pandemic. Followed by political causes such as the war in Ukraine, simmering disputes in the South China Sea and the ongoing conflict in the Red Sea that did not only impact shipping routes, but also legislation and market fluctuations. 

Secondly, climate change is causing maritime cities, companies and organisations to be forced to develop in a very short time to meet imposed ecological requirements and legislation. However, despite all these challenges, the maritime sector has shown tremendous flexibility and resilience and the industry is growing every year.

How can BDO help?

As a pragmatic partner with deep-rooted expertise and knowledge in the transport & logistics sector, we can help local companies with their growth story in this challenging environment. And by doing so unlock the potential Antwerp has to rise to the top of the leading maritime cities of the world.

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Here’s a short summary of our extensive multidisciplinary expertise available for your industry:

  • Our BDO Digital experts can ensure a smooth digital transformation for upcoming terminal and shipping company expansions. The important thing here is to optimise existing capacity and make more efficient use of available space to enable growth without physical expansion. 
  • Together with BDO Customs, you can anticipate on changes in European customs legislation over the next decade. BDO ensures efficient knowledge transfer to stay ahead, which will become increasingly important as regulations evolve.
  • Stay up to date with the ever-changing tax landscape thanks to our broad range of Tax services. From all-round solutions to specific tax sub-domains such as VAT, international tax law, international employment… Expect practical, pragmatic recommendations and solutions from experienced professionals.
  • Operating internationally? Thanks to our global network of BDO firms, you can rely on the same broad expertise across borders, helping your business expand the way you want to.

By providing insights, advice and a hands-on approach we can help you and the maritime sector grow to shape the future of global maritime logistics together.

Wondering how your company in the transport & logistics industry can benefit from BDO’s multidisciplinary expertise? Have a look at our industry website or contact Bernard Moyson, Partner BDO Belgium & Industry Lead Transport & Logistics.

Go to industry pageContact Bernard Moyson