Between 2020 and 2024, more than €20 billion was invested in Flanders from abroad, with €7.83 billion, or 37% directed to Flemish ports.
The data was requested by Flemish Parliament MP Inge Brocken (N-VA) from her fellow party member and Minister-President Matthias Diependaele (N-VA).
Flemish ports continue to attract substantial interest from international investors. During this period, 154 foreign investment projects were launched in the region’s port areas, accounting for a total value of €7.83 billion, making up over 37% of all foreign investments in Flanders.
These investments are concentrated in four strategic sectors: cleantech with 46 projects, logistics and transport with 44 projects, chemicals with 20 projects, and defence and security with 12 projects.
The Flanders Investment & Trade (FIT) agency played an active role by guiding 63 of these projects, which have a combined investment value of €5.15 billion.
According to Brocken, the role of FIT is significant, as they assisted in over 40% of the investment projects.
"Even in these geopolitically uncertain times, the importance of the ports to the Flemish economy remains undeniably great. It is good that Flanders recognises their importance and actively works to attract foreign investments."
Brocken believes the figures underscore the importance of the ports as industrial and logistical hubs, innovation centres, and vital economic engines.
"Many Flemish people underestimate the importance of our ports for our economy and prosperity. It is crucial that we continue to support our ports in these uncertain times, which are constantly threatened with new import tariffs and trade wars."
