General Information

With a central position in Europe and developed infrastructure (port of Antwerp – 2nd in Europe), Belgium, although a small country by size, is a big country for French companies that export massively and invest in the three regions that make it up.

Belgium's proximity to France makes this country a good market to test its offer, especially for first-time exporters. However, the Belgian market should not be approached as a mere extension of the French market. Belgium is a demanding market where commercial behaviours differ from those practised in France. Selling in Belgium remains an export approach and it is necessary to adapt its strategy, its products, its labelling, etc., especially since it is in Flanders, the Dutch-speaking region, that the potential is often the most important. The approach of Flanders must be differentiated from that adopted for Wallonia.

In 2024, France was Belgium's third-largest supplier.

The Brussels region, considered as “neutral ground” by the Flemish and the Walloons, is the one that most easily allows the establishment of a subsidiary. Accounting, for example, could be kept in French; this would not be possible in Flanders.

In addition, Belgium has introduced certain tax incentives that are favourable to businesses, such as deductions for R&D activities and deductions for patent-related income.

Means of Payment & Banking Specificities
 

The payment of advance to the order, which developed with the crisis, is possible.

SWIFT and SEPA credit transfers are the most widely used payment methods. With SEPA SDD, payments are also made by direct debit.

Checks are very little used and their pricing is often a deterrent. The promissory note is not used. On the other hand, it is possible to use the approved bill of exchange in international transactions.

It is also possible to secure transactions using LC, bank guarantees, or credit insurance.