Belgian Economic Missions: Behind the Scenes

With a background in law, Ghislain is the Export Promotion Coordinator at hub.brussels. He acts as a bridge between Brussels and the economic attachés based in Asia and North Africa, supporting local companies looking to enter those markets.

What happens during a Belgian economic mission?

GB : A typical mission lasts about a week and involves a delegation of ministers and business representatives. The agenda mixes bilateral meetings, official ceremonies, and contract signings, often in the presence of local officials and members of the royal family.

For companies, the week includes seminars tailored to the host country's opportunities, followed by networking events and one-on-one B2B meetings. These exchanges are often the highlights of the mission.

Who handles the organisation?

GB : Economic missions are a joint effort between the regional trade agencies (hub.brussels, FIT, and AWEX), the Federal Public Service for Foreign Affairs, and the Foreign Trade Agency. Each region selects key sectors to highlight, and together they build a strategic, coherent programme.

What are Brussels’ strengths?

GB : Each region has its niche. Wallonia is strong in energy and defence, Flanders in logistics and chemistry. Brussels, meanwhile, shines in sustainable construction and services: engineering, architecture, legal and financial consulting, innovation, tech... As the European capital, Brussels is a gateway to the EU market, reinforced by our Market Access activities.

Who can join a mission?

GB : Any Brussels-based business with a company number is eligible, regardless of its sector. From 2026, interested companies will be asked to complete a maturity questionnaire, helping us provide tailored support. Small businesses are absolutely welcome — as long as they have a concrete export project.

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How does registration work?

GB : It starts with a “company profile” — a short description of your company, the contacts you're seeking, and your goals. Then, we get in touch to co-create a personalised programme.

What’s in it for participants?

GB : Visibility, credibility, and quality connections. Royal missions attract strong media coverage, and signature ceremonies with the royal family enhance a company’s international image.

Tailored B2B meetings and networking events help build long-term relationships. And once you're in the hub.brussels ecosystem, you’ll stay informed about upcoming missions and sectoral opportunities.

Do missions always lead to partnerships?

GB : Not always. Some companies join to explore new markets or prepare future expansions. Others seal deals on the spot. Results often come later — months or even years down the line. Many collaborations start with a simple introduction made during a mission.

What are B2B meetings like?

GB : Our teams, together with local attachés, organise meetings based on your goals and sectors of interest. They usually take place at the delegation’s hotel and may be one-on-one or in small groups if there are shared interests.

How much does it cost?

GB : Participants cover their registration (€100 for SMEs, €300 for large companies), travel, and accommodation. On-site activities — networking, seminars, local transport — are included. In short: a business all-in formula.

Is hub.brussels also a travel agency?

GB : (Smiles) We help with logistics — flights, hotels, shuttles — via our travel agency partner. That way, you can focus on business. But above all, we create opportunities and connect you with the right people.

Three words to sum it all up?

GB : Visibility. Opportunities. Support.