Belgian businessman appointed Vietnam’s Honorary Consul in Antwerp

Speaking at the ceremony, Vietnamese Ambassador to Belgium Nguyen Van Thao expressed confidence that with his understanding of and close ties with Vietnam, Van Gestel will make meaningful contributions to advancing Vietnam – Belgium relations, supporting economic and trade connectivity as well as the protection of Vietnamese citizens in the region.

Vietnamese Ambassador to Belgium Nguyen Van Thao (right) presents the decision appointing Belgian entrepreneur Philip Yvonne J. Van Gestel as Vietnam’s Honorary Consul in Antwerp at a ceremony on June 25, 2026.

The appointment is expected to strengthen Vietnam’s consular representation network in Belgium – a country that plays an important role within the European Union (E.U.). Antwerp, in particular, is regarded as one of Europe’s leading logistics hubs and serves as an important economic gateway linking Vietnam and Europe.

For his part, Van Gestel said he has maintained more than three decades of cooperation and engagement with Vietnam in trade and maritime transport. He spoke positively about the Southeast Asian country’s economic development and its increasingly important position in global supply chains, describing Vietnam as a gateway to Asia with considerable potential for cooperation, particularly in logistics and trade.

He also highlighted the significance of the E.U. – Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) and noted that it is expected to continue creating new opportunities for investment and cooperation in the time ahead.

The Honorary Consul's appointment carries a three-year term and covers the Flanders region – Belgium’s most dynamic economic area and home to the Port of Antwerp, Europe’s second-largest seaport.

Van Gestel has extensive experience in logistics, maritime transport, maritime law and corporate governance. He has held various roles within business and port-related organizations in Antwerp and previously served in the Belgian Navy.

Source: VNA