Economic interest grouping

The main outcome of the higher level of trade between Europe and Asia has been a rapid rate of growth in sea container traffic, which could lead to congestion in Antwerp seaport. In order to address this risk Antwerp has naturally sought to conclude agreements with the Port of Liege, located within Antwerp's natural hinterland. The aim is quite straightforward: developing effective cooperation between the Port of Antwerp and the Port of Liege so as to guarantee a seamless system of distribution downstream from the port cargo unloading system.

This is why the Antwerp port authorities immediately agreed to join forces with the Liege Port Authority and the SPI+ in early 2006 as part of an Economic Interest Grouping (EIG) designed to further the development and marketing of the future Liege Trilogiport multimodal platform.

• This EIG is primarily concerned with allowing Port of Antwerp customers who do not need a coastal wharf to become established in its natural hinterland and with improving inward and outward mobility in Antwerp.
• The EIG will also enable the Liege Port Authority to enjoy the benefits of major international companies that are drawn by the Port of Antwerp's status and decide to set-up on the sites inland, thereby enhancing the Liege Port Authority's international profile.
• Lastly, it will help the SPI+ seek industrial units and services likely to offer value-adding opportunities for Liege Province's economy.