Since commencing operations in 2005, Antwerp Gateway has grown into one of Europe’s most advanced and sustainable container terminals, serving as a vital link in global supply chains and a cornerstone of DP World’s European operations.
Over the past 20 years, Antwerp Gateway has expanded from handling 70,000 TEUs to more than 2.4 million TEUs this year. What began as a pioneering concept in terminal automation has become a benchmark for smart logistics, integrating advanced technology, intermodal solutions and renewable energy to make trade flow more efficiently and sustainably across Europe.
The €230 million investment funds new infrastructure, additional yard space and digital systems to improve capacity, reduce emissions and strengthen multimodal connections for barge and rail. DP World’s latest update of its terminal operating system, Zodiac, will be introduced at Antwerp in 2028 to further enhance planning, visibility and efficiency. In 2026, the final four of 27 new automated stacking crane modules will come into operation, enabling the terminal to optimise yard space by stacking containers more densely.
Rashid Abdulla, CEO and MD of DP World Europe, said:
“For two decades, Antwerp Gateway has embodied our mission to make trade flow. We are immensely proud of how our people, partners and customers have worked together to build a terminal that stands for reliability, sustainability and innovation. This investment reinforces our long-term commitment to Europe, our customers and the communities we serve.”
With a workforce of over 750 employees, Antwerp Gateway is fully digitalised, featuring a Truck Appointment System, Trucker App and biometric access controls to ensure safety and smooth terminal operations. Sustainability remains central, with on-site biogas and wind power generation.
Growing beyond the Gateway
Edi Cioran, CEO of DP World Antwerp Gateway, said:
“This is one of the most sustainable terminals in Europe, and the Port of Antwerp has consistently led the way in innovation. From promoting night logistics and intermodal transport by barge and rail, to creating additional container capacity by maximising its existing footprint through modern technology, Antwerp Gateway continues to push boundaries.
“Safety innovations, such as safe straddle carrier platforms, along with on-site renewable energy generation via our biogas plant and wind turbine, further highlight our commitment to safe, sustainable and efficient operations. Our vision is to keep pushing boundaries from sustainability to digital innovation so that Antwerp Gateway remains a leader for the next 20 years and beyond.”
DP World’s presence in Antwerp extends beyond the quay, with new warehousing facilities, a chemical logistics hub and a freight forwarding office opened in 2023, reflecting the company’s expanding end-to-end capabilities across Europe.
The terminal also plays an active role in the local community, supporting nature conservation in the port’s wetlands in partnership with Natuurpunt and creating opportunities for young girls in Antwerp through its collaboration with City Pirates, a grassroots football initiative.