On 14–15 April 2025, Members of the European Parliament’s Committee on Civil Liberties, Justice and Home Affairs (LIBE) conducted a fact-finding mission to the ports of Antwerp and Rotterdam. The objective was to better understand the evolving challenges posed by drug trafficking and organised crime in two of Europe’s busiest maritime gateways. The report of the mission was published May 6th and can be accessed here.
During the mission, Members of the European Parliament met with port authorities, customs officials, public prosecutors, police services, and representatives from public-private partnerships. The visit revealed that criminal organisations operating across borders are becoming increasingly sophisticated in exploiting port infrastructure.
In Antwerp, the LIBE members discussed with the Public Prosecutor’s office, touching on topics such as cooperation between law enforcement agencies. Cross-border cooperation and international partnerships are crucial, as criminal organisations are increasingly adaptable and operate fluidly across borders. It was pointed out that drug trafficking is a societal problem as particularly minors are involved in extracting drugs at port.
A holistic approach focussing on investments in education and fighting poverty is therefore key. During the exchanges with Belgian Customs representatives, the delegates were made aware about the increasing volume of shipments, especially due to the rise of e-commerce, which has gained significance as a means for drug shipments.
During the final meeting of the day, with the Harbour Master Service, the delegation was informed about the implementation of the ISPS code and the use of innovative security technologies for surveillance and detection, including drones.
The visit of Rotterdam included a tour of one of FEPORT member’s facilities, the RWG container terminal, where the delegation witnessed the automated unloading of a container vessel, the transport of containers through automated guided vehicles (AGVs) and the terminal’s connection to hinterland transport modes. Afterwards, the MEPs visited the Office of the Customs Authorities in the port and were provided a tour of the training centre for customs officials. On the inside, this building has been designed to resemble the interior of a ship, thereby allowing customs officials to simulate a raid on a ship suspected of transporting drugs. The delegation met with public authorities such as the Sea Port Police, Fiscal Information and Investigation Service (FIOD) and the Public Prosecution Office, as well as with Deltalinqs. The exchanges focussed, among others, on the need to tackle corruption, personnel screening and cooperation with third countries.
Throughout the mission, the recurring themes included the need for stronger European coordination, enhanced data-sharing, and preventive strategies to counter the societal drivers of crime. Participants also discussed the challenges posed by limited resources, the use of digital systems by criminal groups, and the continued risk of the “waterbed effect” — where enforcement in one port pushes illicit activity to others.
