The key Belgian port of Antwerp has appointed a UK and Ireland representative to make sure Brexit does not hit its business.
The UK is the third-largest trading partner for the vital tanker facility, with an annual freight volume of around 15m tonnes.
Justin Atkin has been brought in this month to attract new sources of cargo and investment.
He is the owner of Ragged Edge Consulting, which works with ports, transport and logistics companies.
Wim Dillen, regional development manager at the port, said: "Brexit brings new challenges for us, and our new representative will act as our eyes and ears, keeping us in touch with the economic situation and the impact of Brexit on Antwerp’s business."
Atkin added: “Brexit is a big challenge for the business world, not in the least for ports serving the UK.
“Fortunately, however, the links and connections with the port of Antwerp are very strong. I will be able to draw on my many years of experience to further develop and expand these links.”
A Brexit taskforce has also been set up with representatives of the port community and customs.
Port CEO Jacques Vandermeiren said: “The actual impact of Brexit is still uncertain.
“Last year there was a decrease of nearly 8% in trade with the UK, probably due to this uncertainty. But with Brexit rapidly approaching we want to concentrate on maintaining and even expanding our market position within the United Kingdom.”
