Exporting to Belgium
Belgium, a gateway to Europe with one of the highest rates of international trade
The Belgian market
Belgium is part of the Benelux, together with the Netherlands and Luxembourg. This international market is located in the central zone or heart of Europe and has a strong attraction in international trade because of its strategic location, but also because it is a highly dynamic international market. As a relatively small European market, it is very used to importing products and services that it cannot produce, or from sectors in which it does not have the productive strength.
Through Belgium we have access to other nearby markets in the centre of Europe. It is a first class logistics centre thanks to its good infrastructure. It has excellent roads, the dynamic port of Antwerp, international airports and a good rail network. Belgium is the gateway for goods and services to a European Union of 500 million inhabitants, an attractive international market with high purchasing power.
Belgium is a federal state made up of 3 large communities: Flemish, French and German-speaking. It has 3 regions: Flanders, Wallonia, and the Region of Brussels-Capital, and 4 linguistic areas.
Key aspects for exporting to Belgium
Belgium, a gateway to the European Union
Belgium is one of the main gateways for goods into the European Union. It borders France, Germany, Luxembourg and the Netherlands by land and the United Kingdom by sea, European markets with high purchasing power. Despite being a relatively small market, it has several major international trade fairs in key sectors such as the Salon de l’Alimentation, Empack and Labelexpo Europe, the world’s largest event for the packaging and label printing sector.
Belgium’s trade balance
Belgium is considered a powerhouse in foreign trade, with one of the highest export rates per capita in the world. Despite being a small market, Belgium is a major exporter and enjoys a positive trade balance. It is a major European logistics hub with a highly diversified economy.
In recent years, its most dynamic sectors have been chemicals, convenience food, automotive, machinery, machinery, electronic equipment, pharmaceuticals, beverages, diamonds and financial services. Its main trading partners are Germany, France, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom and the United States, both in terms of exports and imports.
The Belgian business personality
Belgians have a friendly and very business-like culture and are very adaptable to international environments. They are linguistically rich, with 3 official languages, Dutch, French and German, and a good command of English in business. Belgium is a country that has achieved high levels of gender equality in business environments, and it is very common to deal with management teams of both women and men.
The Belgian business personality is a fascinating blend of innovation, resilience, and a strong commitment to collaboration, very good basis for exporting to Belgium. Known for their pragmatic approach, Belgian entrepreneurs often prioritize practicality and efficiency in their business dealings. This characteristic is deeply rooted in the country’s rich history of trade and commerce, which has shaped a culture that values hard work and determination.
Belgian business leaders are also recognized for their adaptability. Operating in a multilingual and multicultural environment, they are skilled at navigating diverse markets and understanding the nuances of different consumer preferences. This adaptability allows them to forge strong relationships with partners and clients, both locally and internationally. Moreover, the emphasis on multilingualism in Belgium—where Dutch, French, and German are all official languages—further enhances their ability to communicate effectively across borders.
In addition to their adaptability, Belgian entrepreneurs are often characterized by their innovative spirit. The country has a vibrant startup ecosystem, particularly in sectors such as technology, biotechnology, and sustainable development. This focus on innovation is supported by a strong network of research institutions and universities, which collaborate with businesses to drive forward-thinking solutions. As a result, many Belgian companies are at the forefront of developing cutting-edge products and services that meet the evolving needs of consumers.
Collaboration is another hallmark of the Belgian business personality. Belgians tend to value teamwork and collective success, often working closely with others to achieve common goals. This collaborative mindset extends beyond individual companies to include partnerships between businesses, government, and academia, fostering an environment where ideas can flourish and be transformed into successful ventures.
Furthermore, Belgian business leaders are increasingly aware of their social and environmental responsibilities. Many are committed to sustainable practices and corporate social responsibility, recognizing the importance of contributing positively to society and the planet. This forward-thinking approach not only enhances their brand reputation but also resonates with consumers who are increasingly prioritizing ethical and sustainable choices.
In summary, the Belgian business personality is defined by a unique combination of practicality, adaptability, innovation, collaboration, and social responsibility that makes exporting to Belgium very easy. These traits not only contribute to the success of individual entrepreneurs but also play a significant role in positioning Belgium as a dynamic player in the global business landscape.
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At Barcelona Export we are experts in international trade, specialists in French-speaking markets and experts in the Belgian market. Contact us for information and advice.
