The Port of Antwerp has decided to appoint a full-time representative in the UK, in order to keep in closer touch with the UK economic situation, as the Brexit is soon to happen.
As the Port informed commercial relations between the port and the UK are very significant. “The UK is actually our third-largest trading partner,” Luc Arnouts, the Port Authority’s International Networks manager, said.
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The Port of Antwerp wants a “Clear, well-defined Brexit, both during the current transition period and in the post-Brexit age, in order to prevent a disintegration of the internal market,” explained Port Authority CEO Jacques Vandermeiren, adding that “Once Brexit becomes a reality, we want to have an efficient framework that permits a smooth flow of trade. That means as few tariff barriers and administrative obstacles as possible.”
Under-Secretary of State Robin Walker, mentioned:
Our trading and political ties with Belgium are deep and longstanding, and we know they will continue and strengthen as we leave the EU. As we look forward to our future relationship, an Implementation Period will be essential to provide certainty to people and businesses in the UK and in Belgium. We are well underway in our discussions with the EU on the terms of an Implementation Period and hope to secure an agreement swiftly. We are confident that we will be able to secure a future partnership that allows people from the UK and Belgium to continue enjoying open access to one another’s markets.