ING Port Study 2025: the Belgian logistics industry’s dual struggle

Brussels - The Belgian port, transport and logistics industry, a key lifeline of the open economy and a vital hub in Europe, is at a crucial juncture, marked by a dual transition towards decarbonisation and digitalisation. These transitions are no longer abstract concepts, but operational necessities, driven by tighter regulations, societal pressures and the increasing demands of customers and investors. This is according to a new comprehensive report by ING, in collaboration with the University of Antwerp and VIL (Flanders’ Innovation Cluster for Logistics).

The study entitled “Headwinds and tailwinds in the decarbonisation and digitalisation of the Belgian port, transport and logistics industry” combines in-depth analysis with survey insights from 75 top names in the industry. The report paints a comprehensive picture of an industry in full transition. It looks beyond seaports and includes domestic terminals, logistics and transport companies, technology firms and other players.

The results show that many companies are already actively pursuing sustainable and digital strategies, while others are still in the early stages of exploration or experimentation. The key drivers for both transitions are business operations, ESG compliance and competitiveness. However, the barriers vary greatly. These contrasts highlight the complexity of the transition and the importance of a tailored approach, both for each company individually and for the entire ecosystem.

A quarter of respondents have already implemented a full decarbonisation strategy, and the majority see digitalisation as an integral part of their business model. However, the study also shows a clear disparity: while frontrunners are leading the way, many companies are still struggling with uncertainty and a lack of resources.

From necessity to reputational opportunity: Belgian logistics embraces sustainable revolution

The Belgian logistics industry is under increasing pressure from regulatory, environmental, technological and market developments. Market expectations and regulations are evolving rapidly, with shippers and end customers increasingly demanding green logistics solutions, not only for compliance with the rules but also for reputational reasons. Forward-thinking companies see this pressure as a catalyst for innovation and an opportunity to stand out.

According to the study, the industry has entered a phase of active transformation. Technological solutions such as AI, IoT, robotics and digital twins are no longer seen as future tools, but are already being applied in the fields of predictive maintenance, cargo handling and traffic flow optimisation. These technologies enable more responsive and data-driven operations across terminals, warehouses and transport assets. At the same time, energy efficiency measures, alternative fuels and innovative logistics concepts are gaining ground in the battle to reduce emissions.

Main findings of the study

The survey of 75 industry players reveals that a company’s reputation and the desire to maintain a strong competitive position are the main drivers for both transitions. 81% of respondents believe digitalisation strengthens their competitiveness, while 64% indicate the same for greening initiatives.

“The Belgian transport and logistics industry is on the frontline of an unprecedented transformation, and this study confirms that our customers recognise the challenges while also seeing them as an opportunity for growth. At ING, with so many dedicated bankers deeply rooted in the industry, we want to be a partner who helps them finance and navigate these transitions by facilitating dialogue and knowledge exchange within the ecosystem,” says Nadia Lonneux, Head of Transport & Logistics at ING Wholesale Banking Belgium.

Financial question marks and public policy: the double brake on the green logistics revolution

While digitalisation is widely seen as a financially sound investment with clear benefits in terms of efficiency and profitability, decarbonisation is severely hampered by financial uncertainty. High start-up costs and unclear business cases are a significant barrier for many companies, especially SMEs.

Lawrence Vanhove, Head of Transport & Logistics at ING Business Banking Belgium, adds: “We are seeing medium-sized companies, but above all SMEs, often struggle with the high initial cost of sustainable investments even if they are willing to change. Our aim is to support these companies with our expertise and provide them with the right financial tools. This way they can make their contribution to more sustainable logistics and, above all, be ready for the future.”

Another consistent and problematic bottleneck lies in the realm of policy and regulation. The lack of clear, consistent and predictable government policies, alongside complex approval processes, is seen by many respondents as the biggest obstacle to investment in both green and digital solutions.

Kris Neyens, Manager of Internationalisation at VIL, notes: "The results of this study confirm a striking gap between ambition and realisation. Although companies feel societal and commercial pressure to become more sustainable and digitalise, their long-term plans are often hindered by financial uncertainty and geopolitical tensions, and especially by a lack of consistent policy. The port study clearly shows that the transition requires not only technological innovation, but above all a coordinated approach and shared governance models. Only in this way can we make the leap from vision to embedded practice."

A shared vision, the challenge of shared action

The study highlights that collaboration and governance remain underdeveloped. Many decarbonisation and digitalisation initiatives fail not because of a lack of ideas, but because of insufficient coordination and unclear cost allocation. Public-private partnerships, knowledge-sharing platforms and common standards are considered essential to overcome governance challenges and facilitate system-wide change.

While the shift to multimodal and synchromodal solutions is often hailed as a key strategy for decarbonisation, these options remain underused. Structural and operational obstacles, such as inefficiencies in intermodal transfers and the dominance of road transport for short distances, inhibit widespread adoption. Still, the report offers hope: domestic terminals, pipelines and digital collaboration platforms are seen as emerging enablers for greener transport chains.

Concrete recommendations for the industry

To accelerate the transformation, Professor Theo Notteboom of the University of Antwerp, and lead author of the report, makes the following recommendations:

“The transition of our industry will not be self-evident. Our recommendations emphasise the need to shift from separate projects to a holistic, coordinated approach. By strategically leveraging sustainability, creating robust business cases and fully engaging in collaboration and talent development, companies can turn the current headwinds into powerful tailwinds and position themselves as leaders in the logistics of the future.”

The report concludes that companies that act decisively, invest strategically and collaborate effectively will not only comply with regulations, but also strengthen their long-term competitiveness and help shape the future of logistics.

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​End of the press release

Additional information:

Gianni De Muynck

Spokesman & Media Relations Manager, ING Belgium

• pressoffice@ing.be

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