Port boss North Sea Port wants faster permits and measures against dumping: "That is what companies are currently struggling with"

Cas König, CEO of North Sea Port, advocates for faster permit processing and fair competition in the industry, citing a study on the economic significance of Flemish ports. The study reveals that in 2024, the ports contributed €38.1 billion in added value and nearly 235,000 full-time jobs. However, the share of Flemish ports in Belgium's GDP decreased from 7.19% in 2022 to 6.14% in 2024, primarily due to declines in the metal, chemical, fuel production, and energy sectors. König emphasizes the need for improved infrastructure and quicker permits to support industry growth and European autonomy. He also calls for a faster European response to dumping practices affecting the chemical sector, which includes 60 companies in North Sea Port. König acknowledges the importance of government subsidies while noting geopolitical tensions that impact production and pricing.