A new lock allows wider ships to reach ArcelorMittal in Ghent

On December 29th, the seagoing vessel PIAVIA (38.04 m wide, 229.20 m long) arrived at ArcelorMittal in Ghent, having passed through the New Lock in Terneuzen. This trial voyage marks a significant achievement for North Sea Port and ArcelorMittal, proving that wider ships can safely navigate the Ghent-Terneuzen Canal.

Why is this important?

• Optimization of the Ghent-Terneuzen Canal for larger ships.
• More efficient and sustainable transport of raw materials and products.
• Strengthening the international position of our port and ArcelorMittal Belgium.

The preparations were intensive: nautical simulations, studies by the Flemish-Dutch Scheldt Commission (VNSC), the Joint Nautical Management (GNB), North Sea Port, and the Pilotage Service. 

Flemish Minister Annick De Ridder emphasizes: "This trial run shows how important investments in our ports are for a strong economy. By bringing larger and wider ships to our industry more smoothly, we are making transport more efficient and cheaper. In this way, we are strengthening the international position of our ports, giving our companies more clout, and ensuring that industry and jobs can continue to grow here."

Impact for ArcelorMittal Belgium

The ship's final destination was ArcelorMittal Belgium in Ghent. 

Frederik Van De Velde, CEO ArcelorMittal Belgium: “The ship is carrying commercial cargo that will be unloaded at our quay. This allows us to test how a larger, wider ship can navigate to our quay and what this means for our on-shore personnel. The more cargo we can transport in a single trip, the more sustainable and cost-effective our steel production becomes.”