Your Future in Europe Starts in Belgium
10 reasons to invest in Belgium
Located in the heart of Western Europe, Belgium plays an important role in the European and international economies. As one of the six founding countries of the European Union and home to the headquarters of numerous international organizations, Belgium has always been a thriving market with business dealings with countries all over the world.
Despite its relatively short history (founded in 1830), Belgium’s colorful past and location at the crossroads of different cultures have made it the cosmopolitan country it is today. Composed of three regions (Brussels-Capital, Flanders and Wallonia) and three language groups (Dutch, French and German), Belgium has a large population and strong purchasing power.
Despite its small size, Belgium has a wealth of resources to offer businesses, no matter where in the world they come from. Let’s take a quick look at why Belgium is a great place to invest.
1. Open Economy
Belgium’s exports account for more than 80% of the country’s GDP. According to the latest data from the World Trade Organization, Belgium is the world’s tenth largest exporter. Belgium is located in the heart of Western Europe and has a prosperous market. Belgium is the host country of many international organizations and is closely connected to the globalized world. In fact, according to the KOF index, which measures a country’s openness by assessing the economic, political and social dimensions of globalization, Belgium is the most globalized country in the world.
In addition, in Ernst & Young’s European New Investment Project Attractiveness Survey, Belgium ranked fifth, indicating that many investors have found a way to invest in Belgium.
2. Gateway to 500 million European consumers
Belgium’s central location in one of the wealthiest and most developed regions in the world means that export opportunities are numerous and varied. For example, within a 500-mile (± 800 km) radius of Brussels lies an astonishing 80% of Europe’s purchasing power.
Belgium is also a renowned consumer test market. If a product is successfully launched in Belgium, it will have similar success in other European markets. Belgium is your gateway to Europe and beyond.
5. First-class human capital
The productivity level of the Belgian workforce is among the highest in the EU. Key factors in this are the quality of the education system and the ability to speak multiple languages. Other attractive factors include the flexibility and versatility of the workforce. And the desire to learn in a constantly changing working condition and environment. Constructive social dialogue creates a positive business climate.
In addition, 35% of the workforce has at least one higher education degree, which is well above the OECD average. This excellent human capital can help drive the growth of your company.
Belgium’s highly qualified workforce is sure to meet the demands of the international workplace.
6. Belgium cultivates and attracts talent
Belgium has 16 high-level universities. Seven of them are listed in the Shanghai Academic Ranking of World Universities. According to the Global Competitiveness Report 2013-2014, Belgium ranks highly in higher education and training (5th), mathematics and science education (3rd), management schools (2nd), and the propensity for on-the-job training, which helps improve overall innovation capabilities (10th).
Belgium also has excellent research institutions and ranks sixth in the world for the quality of university-industry cooperation. Driven by a network of internationally renowned university research centers, Belgium has established spin-offs and incubators across the country. As a center of excellence, Belgium has indeed made achievements in key areas such as life sciences, nanotechnology, biotechnology and renewable energy.
9. Affordable real estate prices
Real estate prices in Belgian cities are lower than in surrounding European cities, and in the capital Brussels, real estate prices are significantly lower than in other international centers such as Paris, London and Frankfurt. According to the 2023 Global Occupancy Cost Survey released by Cushman & Wakefield, no other business city in Western Europe offers such affordable office space as Brussels.
10. Livable City
According to the International Living Index, Belgium has one of the highest standards for “Quality of Life” in Europe. Belgium’s main strengths are family living space, advanced healthcare system, social services, green areas, education and a large number of excellent international schools.
Belgium is a vibrant country with a long cultural tradition. World-class festivals and cultural events offer endless opportunities for your social and cultural life. From the Ardennes to the North Sea, the various landscapes provide you with great opportunities to enjoy nature.
Belgium has a tradition of fine dining and has more multi-star restaurants per square kilometer than anywhere else in Europe, which also provides tourists with a pleasant dining experience. Last but not least, Belgians are hospitable and sociable; they like to gather on the terraces of cafes and enjoy life.
Advantages of studying in Belgium
Diverse cultural atmosphere
Belgium is a multicultural country with people from all over the world. This diverse cultural atmosphere helps to cultivate children’s international vision and cross-cultural communication skills.
Good language environment
The first criterion for international talent is language skills. Belgium is a multilingual country with official languages including Dutch, French and German. In addition, Belgians generally speak English, so children will master at least three languages in the future.
High quality education
Belgium ranks second in the world in basic education. Belgium has some world-renowned universities, such as the University of Leuven, Ghent University and Free University of Brussels, which enjoy a good reputation in many disciplines. Belgian education focuses on cultivating students’ innovative thinking and practical ability, with high teaching quality and high value of diplomas.
Learn more about European culture
Western culture originated in Europe. Belgium is the intersection of European culture and has rich resources in art, music, architecture and food. By studying in Belgium, students can gain a deeper understanding of these unique cultural elements, improve their cultural literacy and increase their cultural accumulation.
Low cost
Compulsory education in Belgium is free, and university is also free. You only need to pay a few hundred euros for registration fees. Children with Belgian residency can enjoy a number of welfare subsidies. Therefore, some friends jokingly say that “studying in Belgium does not cost money, and you can also make money!”
European diverse selection
Because children have very good language skills, they can choose from more countries when they go to college, such as the Netherlands, France, Germany and the United Kingdom.
Abundant internship and employment opportunities
Belgium has many international organizations, so Belgian universities maintain close cooperation with many international companies and organizations, providing students with abundant internship opportunities. In addition, after obtaining Belgian permanent residence, children can freely seek employment and development in the EU in the future.
Good safety environment
Belgium has good public security and a low crime rate. In addition, Belgium has a well-developed medical system, providing children with comprehensive health protection.
Excellent location
Belgium is located in the heart of Europe, and its capital, Brussels, has many administrative agencies. In addition, Belgium is also a Schengen country of the European Union. Belgian residency permit holders can travel to other EU countries including Germany, France, Spain, and the Netherlands.