Belgium is neatly tucked between France and the Netherlands and has a number of reasons why it should be considered as a possible country to move your business. Although a reasonably small country it is thought of as one of the global leaders in political and economic activity as it is a member of both the European Union (EU) and the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO). With the UK and Belgium being major investors in each others economies and approximately 26,000 British citizens living in Belgium it has become an exciting time to consider starting up a business in Belgium. Foreign investors have the same legal rights and obligations as domestic entities and the well known productivity in Belgium is one the highest in the world. With such a high standard of education and training the Belgiums have created an incredible workforce. Belgium is a hub of activity and makes it an exciting country to invest in.

What's the Attraction for UK Business?

Even though there are three languages in Belgium there is plenty of room for their fourth, unofficial language of English, making it a great choice of country for British businesses. Belgium is barely a stones throw from the UK, which means its very accessible for UK companies. Starting a business in Belgium is easier done than said.

Business Opportunities

There are several growing industries UK companies interested in expanding or licensing a business in Belgium should consider. A number of opportunities are shown below:

• Software & Computer Services - With the world becoming smaller through the use of computers and software everything is easier to access. There seems to be no end to growth in this sector throughout the world. Registering a business in Belgium in these sectors may be highly profitable.
  
• Telecoms - Telecoms are going from strength to strength, with many households having phones and mobiles. The every changing technology means its becoming a trend of its own to have the latest handset.
  
• Chemicals today we find chemicals in all sorts of products and with many companies looking towards being more environmental conscious there is plenty of room to help save the planet as well as make money.
• Consumer goods also known as final goods. These are sold to the mass market and are consumed or used straight away.
• Food and drink - We all know about Belgium chocolate and Belgium beer and although both are delicious there is an increasing market for ethnic taste, frozen and convenience foods. It's a key sector for licensing or incorporating a business in Belgium.
  
• Gardening it has increased in popularity, whether gardening for pleasure or wanting to grow your own veg it certainly is a good time to be getting into the green finger market.
• Biotechnology and Pharmaceuticals
• Mechanical and electrical engineering
• Security with increasing technologies it has become easier, as well as important for businesses and households to invest in security.
• Water probably one of the single most important things to human kind, this sector is unlikely to decrease

There are several main cities that you may consider as possible areas when setting up a business in Belgium. They are:

Challenges Foreign Companies Face

Belgium is known for traditionally having an open economy and welcomes foreign investors. However like starting up a business at home there are always going to be hurdles. The important word here is research, research, research! Cover all aspects of your business plan and consider if the industry you wish to develop in your business will be suitable to Belgium. Here are a few pointers as to what you will need when registering a business in Belgium: