Unleashing the Potential of Industrial Clusters 2025

Launched in February 2024, the Antwerp Declaration calls on European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen to strengthen the business case for investing in Europe. Backed by over 1,280 organizations across 25 industries, it presents 10 key actions to revitalize European industry, focusing on clear policy frameworks, legislative enhancements and initiatives to boost demand for low-carbon products. The Port of Antwerp-Bruges in Belgium is central to these efforts. Beyond its role as a major logistics and petrochemical hub, the port hosts large-scale infrastructure projects, including the development of a CO2 grid aimed at cutting CO2 emissions at the port by 50%, as well as hydrogen and ammonia infrastructure to support clean energy transitions. The port also provides concessions on its NextGen site for investors in recycling and clean technology at both commercial and demonstration scales. With extensive experience and resources, the Port of Antwerp-Bruges is uniquely positioned to support and amplify initiatives like the Antwerp Declaration, offering policy- makers critical insights into what is needed to retain and attract investments in Europe. The Antwerp Declaration exemplifies how industry can come together to offer policy- makers a clear and well-informed framework, leveraging the knowledge and experience of industrial stakeholders to outline crucial actions for boosting Europe’s prosperity by protecting its industrial competitiveness and sustainability. Jacques Vandermeiren, Chief Executive Officer, Port of Antwerp-Bruges Port of Antwerp-Bruges Image credit: Port of Antwerp-BrugesCASE STUDY 5 Over 1,280 organizations unite to advocate for policy change in the Antwerp Declaration Unleashing the Full Potential of Industrial Clusters: Infrastructure Solutions for Clean Energies 19