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A recent analysis highlights how Belgian exports to EU countries are underperforming compared to those destined for non-EU markets, despite the advantages of the single market.
According to the study, Belgium is not fully exploiting its trade potential within the EU: a gap of over 10 billion euros is estimated in exports to other member states.
In theory, intra-European trade should benefit from favourable factors such as geographical proximity, a common currency, and greater economic integration. However, these advantages do not always translate into concrete results.
In several strategic sectors – including chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and specialised metals – Belgium has relatively low market shares in major European economies such as Germany, Italy, and Spain.
Among the main causes are still structural obstacles within the single market, such as regulatory differences and cultural barriers, which continue to limit trade between member countries.
This scenario therefore highlights a significant growth margin for Belgian companies to strengthen their presence in European markets, fully leveraging the opportunities offered by the Union's economic integration.
Source: BNP PARIBAS