Belgium experiences a nationwide strike! 129 ships delayed, airport flights massively canceled, and port loading and unloading operations stalled. This strike has significantly impacted major ports in Belgium, posing a risk of potential paralysis in the European logistics network if the situation worsens.

In terms of maritime transport, operations at ports such as Antwerp, Zeebrugge, and Ghent have been severely affected. Belgium's MDK Maritime and Coastal Services company stated that due to a shortage of personnel, shipping in Antwerp will be suspended until Wednesday, with over 100 vessels currently waiting in the North Sea for docking permits at the three ports.

Latest data shows that there are 36 ships waiting in Antwerp, 5 in Zeebrugge, and 4 in Ghent, while in the North Sea, there are 84 ships waiting, with 64 heading to Antwerp, 8 to Zeebrugge, and 12 to Ghent.

Regarding air transport, Belgium's largest airport, Brussels Airport, has canceled all flights due to security personnel strikes, and the second-largest airport, Charleroi Airport, has also canceled flights and suspended services. However, Brussels Airport mentioned that the nationwide union action has limited impact on freight operations. Liège Airport, as one of Europe's major freight hubs, seems to have been less affected by the strike.

Belgian authorities revealed that as of noon on the day of the strike, 800,000 protesters had participated in demonstrations in the capital city alone. The strike was sparked by austerity measures implemented by the local government to reduce the deficit, including cuts to pensions, leading to strong dissatisfaction among unions. The unions have put forth a series of demands such as increased overtime pay and bonuses, early retirement options, night shift compensation, improved pensions, and job security for young people.

The latest development indicates that the Rotterdam court has partially suspended the strike by lashing workers, with the judge ordering the strike to continue until 7 a.m. on Monday, after which workers must return to handle the backlog of cargo. Both parties must strive for a compromise; otherwise, another strike may occur on October 17. FNV union and lashing companies ILS and Matrans are meeting again on Sunday to attempt to reach an agreement; if no resolution is reached by Friday, a second hearing or court ruling may take place.

The primary reason for the strike is a wage dispute, with the FNV union demanding a 6.5% salary increase while employers argue that the raise is too high, proposing annual increases of 4% and 6%. Employers have described the strike as "unreasonable" and "destructive."