Belgium: at the heart of your investment plans

Ideally located in the heart of Europe, with hundreds of millions of consumers in an 800 km radius within reach, Belgium is more than just a country – it is a strategic location. The country offers a dynamic ecosystem ideal for growing a business, with European decision-makers, large companies, and innovative start-ups all in close proximity. You can quickly start and grow your business here thanks to largely digitalised procedures.

Immediate access to European and international markets

Setting up in Belgium means rapid access to European and international markets by road, rail, air, or sea;

• three international airports: Brussels, Liège and Charleroi (fifth largest freight hub in Europe)
• port of Antwerp: Europe's second-largest port, connected to more than 1,000 ports worldwide
• high-speed rail links to London (2hr), Paris (1hr 22), Amsterdam (1hr 50), Frankfurt (3hr 09) Cologne, Düsseldorf, Rotterdam and Lille
• a dense road network that is fully integrated into the European network

• high-performing and constantly evolving telecommunications infrastructure 

   

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Internationally recognised sectors of excellence

Belgium enjoys an excellent international reputation in various fields:

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An international decision-making centre

Belgium—and Brussels in particular— has forged a niche as a strategic hub for international decision-making and economic activity:

• numerous European and international institutions are based here
  • 1,500 international associations
  • 1,500 foreign journalists
  • over 5,000 diplomats
• Brussels is the leading destination for global meetings (620 congresses in 2023)
• more than 2,000 multinational companies contribute to a dynamic business environment
• an environment brimming with influential actors—diplomats, international media, and interest groups—ideal for networking and cooperation
   

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Specific benefits for your business

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An attractive institutional environment for businesses

• A federal State organised into three regions and three communities, each with powers adapted to economic realities and business sectors
• French, Dutch and German are the three official languages. English is widely spoken. This diversity is an asset for your international business ventures 
• Free support is available in every region, tailored to your project and location – from market research to company set-up

Your first consultation is free

Useful links:

• The Belgian Government Portal
• The "Belgium at a Glance" brochure
• The Focus on Belgium website
• The website of the Belgian statistical office, Statbel 
• The Belgian Foreign Trade Agency website