Business Subsidies in Belgium
Belgium spends nearly €25 billion on subsidies and investment grants to enterprises each year, accounting for around 4% of GDP.
Government expenditure on subsidies and investment grants to enterprises is relatively high in Belgium, partly to compensate for the high tax burden on labour income.
- Subsidies and investment grants to enterprises in 2024: approximately €25 billion
- Percentage of GDP: more than 4%
- Comparison to neighboring countries: 1.5% of GDP more on subsidies
The difference mainly relates to expenditure aimed at compensating for the high tax burden on labour income.
This article provides an overview of what the spending includes and calls for it to be critically assessed.
Author's summary: Belgium's business subsidies are relatively high.