From airports to ports
The programme began in Brussels, where MSc International Trade & Maritime Logistics students explored the role of air cargo in international trade and the importance of airport hubs in global logistics. In Antwerp, one of Europe’s key ports, they attended a conference at Antwerp Management School before visiting the port itself. The experience provided valuable insight into how large-scale maritime operations are organised and managed.
Innovation at scale in Rotterdam
The group then travelled to Rotterdam, Europe’s largest port, where they discovered cutting-edge logistics infrastructure, including the highly automated Maasvlakte terminal.
They also met with customs authorities to better understand the regulatory side of international trade. A series of conferences hosted by the Port Authority covered major industry topics, from energy transport and geopolitical challenges to decarbonisation and innovation.
The trip concluded with a visit to the BCTN barge terminal in Alblasserdam, highlighting the role of inland waterways in modern logistics networks.
Learning beyond the classroom
More than just a series of visits, the trip gave international trade & logistics students the opportunity to step into real working environments and engage directly with industry professionals. It allowed them to see how theory translates into practice, while developing a clearer understanding of the challenges shaping the logistics sector today.
"It was a very instructive and high-quality experience. It really helped me to understand in depth many concepts that we had only seen in theory during classes. The visit of the Port of Rotterdam, especially its level of automatisation, really stood out to me and made those theoretical notions much more concret."
