Belgium is strategically located in the heart of Europe. Nestled between Germany, the Netherlands, France and Luxembourg, and a short “hop” by sea to the UK, it lies at the centre of the richest and most densely populated area in Europe. Because of its strategic location, Belgium is an international hub for economic and political institutions. The headquarters of the European Union and NATO are located here and Brussels is ranked the number eight business city in Europe1. With Antwerp as the second largest container port of Europe in 20102 and an extensive inland waterway network of over 1.500 km., the country provides a strong basis for any maritime logistics hub. Expats consider Belgium as the third best country of Europe when it comes to quality of life3 and it is ranked first in Europe for health and primary education4. Belgium has the highest degree of innovative workforce in Europe with 8,8% of its workforce being scientists and engineers5 . The most problematic factors for doing business in Belgium4 are considered to be: • Restrictive labour regulations • Tax Rates • Inefficient government bureaucracy 1 European City Monitor, Cushman & Wakefield, 2011 2 World Container Traffic data 2012 3 IMD, World Competitiveness Yearbook, 2008 4 Global Competitiveness Report 2011-2012 (World Economic Forum) 5 Eurostat, 2010 E&OE
If you would like more detailed information regarding inward investments in Belgium, please visit the InvestinBelgium website
Belgium
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