BASF Announces: Layoffs of 600 Employees!

BASF, a chemical company, plans to lay off 600 employees at its Antwerp plant by the end of 2028. The largest chemical company in Belgium announced the layoff plan on the morning of Wednesday, October 22. Although approximately one-fifth of the workforce at BASF's Antwerp plant will be reduced, the company insists that there will be no forced layoffs. Meanwhile, employer organizations have stated that this news is "a blow to the Belgian industry."

At the end of last year, BASF Antwerp announced its goal to achieve structural savings of 100 million euros in fixed costs by 2028. This figure has now been increased to 150 million euros.

The company stated, "The economic situation and the lack of any practical effects from measures intended to support the industry have forced the company to take action once again."

BASF stated that since "fixed costs" mainly include the costs of employing staff, further reducing fixed costs by 50% beyond the initially announced reduction will inevitably lead to layoffs.

By the end of 2028, approximately 600 jobs will be lost. The company stated that while this target cannot be fully achieved through natural attrition, no mandatory layoffs will be implemented.

The union was informed of this news at a special works council meeting on Wednesday morning. Jan Vlegels of the socialist union ABV told VRT News: "From now until 2028, 600 jobs will be cut, which is about 17% of the total workforce."

"For those who have lost their jobs and those who have kept their jobs but must take on the work of others, the impact will be significant."

The union is holding a meeting for its members to provide them with more details about the management's plans. "In the coming weeks, it should become clearer which departments and positions need to be vacated. At that time, we will inform the employees and the union of all the details."

This news has not only dealt a heavy blow to BASF employees. Frank Beckx, CEO of the Flemish employers' organization VOKA, described it as "another blow to Flemish industry." "We must do everything we can to preserve the jewels of Flemish industry. Industry is the cornerstone of our prosperity."

The chemical industry federation Essenscia also expressed a similar view, stating, "This is bad news and saddening for everyone affected," Yves Verschueren, Managing Director of Essenscia, said in an initial response.

At the same time, we must acknowledge that, unfortunately, this is inevitable. For months, we have been calling for decisive action to restore the competitiveness of European industry. This statement once again demonstrates how urgent this demand is for the government, social partners, and all who care about the survival of our industry.

"We will continue to advocate for maintaining the strong cluster of chemical companies in the Port of Antwerp at all costs."