Marine traffic at Belgium's Port of Antwerp-Bruges has been severely disrupted by industrial action by Flemish harbour pilots protesting federal pension reforms, reports Reuters.

Port authorities said only 31 vessels were processed in one day compared to the usual 60 to 80. Some ships were delayed or stranded, while others diverted to alternative ports.

The pilots, who are essential for guiding ships through congested or hazardous waters, have been working to rule, slowing operations significantly.

Maersk confirmed that the disruption is affecting both Antwerp and Zeebrugge, with delays expected to persist in the coming days.