Belgium 2020

Belgium

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NEW YORK CITY WAS FOUNDED BY A BELGIAN The big apple was founded by Belgian, Peter Minuit in 1626.

Minuit was appointed an explorer for the Dutch West India Company and went to the Americas in search of tradable goods.

DIAMOND CAPITAL LONGEST PERIOD WITHOUT A GOVERNMENT Antwerp, the second city of The world record for a democratic nation to be without an elected government is held by Belgium, which lasted for 589 days in 2010-11.

Belgium often gets overlooked in importance when compared to Brussels, but the city not only boasts a rich history of art and culture but is in fact, the diamond capital of the world.

BEER IN SCHOOL

SAXOPHONE

In the 1970s, light beer was served during school lunch. In traditional Belgian culture, it was acceptable for everyone, including children, to drink a kind of light, ‘bière de table’.

When Belgian instrument maker Adolphe Sax strived to fill the gaping musical hole between woodwind and brass instruments, he created the saxophone with a single-reed mouthpiece in 1846.

BELGIUM

Ready to Step Up and Increase the Trade Bilateral trade has suffered during the COVID crisis, but I am quite confident that trade and investment will get back to the usual growth path READ THIS ON WEB

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ith both governments and parliaments now fully operational, I expect an increase in high level contacts and, when Covid subsides, a resumption of people –to- people encounters. The Brussels Belgrade cooperation may become a source of inspiration for tackling urban challenges. “, said H.E. Adam Koenraad, Ambassador of Belgium for the special supplement Focus ON Belgium.

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Belgium is a staunch supporter of Serbia's EU integration. How would you assess the European Commission's recent annual progress report about Serbia?

— The Commission report offers an elaborate diagnosis of Serbia’s progress to full EU membership. It is the outcome of a complex assessment process, to which numerous Serbian and European stakeholders in Serbia’s EU future have contributed. The result is a balanced report that highlights some advances Serbia has made, especially in the macro-economic framework, and also with regard to the relaunch of the Belgrade-Pristina dialogue, where the constructive Serbian attitude was recognised. There are, however, also important shortcomings: too little or no progress was made in comparison to last year’s report, in areas that are mostly related to the socalled ‘fundamentals’, i.e. the rule of law, independence of judiciary, democratic governance, the fight against

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corruption and organised crime, or media freedom. The COVID-19 pandemic may indeed explain some of the accumulated delays in government and parliament action, but the overall impression remains that over the past years, valuable time has been lost to make progress in those areas that weigh most heavily in the overall negotiations balance.

What do you think should be the priorities of the Serbian government, especially in the light of the EU accession?

— Without any doubt priority number one will be to overcome the COVID-crisis, in parallel with the accession agenda.

Any enlargement should make the EU stronger, not weaker. And the same goes of course for the new member states. An economically stable, democratically governed Serbia, that is built on a harmonious society and at peace with its neighbours, will always be an asset for the EU. With that in mind, the EU Commission report should be handled as a toolbox and source of inspiration for the government priority- setting, in all areas of political, economic and social life. The country needs well-functioning democratic institutions, where checks and balances can operate freely and transparently, which will automatically generate trust in broad layers of society, and create an environment where the rule of law and economic and social

H.E. ADAM KOENRAAD Ambassador of Belgium

Serbia is considered a stable market with growth potential, provided Serbia continues its path towards EU accession

wellbeing thrives. This is indeed the recipe to attract the interest of foreign investors, create jobs and growth, and hence make Serbia stronger on the threshold of the EU. It could help to stem brain drain and the outflow of young Serbians, who should become the backbone of the new dynamic Serbia, member state of the EU. The EU stands ready to accompany this process, with a Economic and Investment Package worth 9 MIA € for the whole region, leveraging another 20 MIA € in investments through its guarantee scheme. This brings additional financial oxygen to support the COVID-19 recovery process, and help the government to invest in infrastructure, regional connectivity with a green and digital focus - and the social wellbeing of the people.

For all this to come to maximum fruition, the basic requirements regarding rule of law, as spelled out in the Commission report, need to be fulfilled. If the government is serious about EU integration as its strategic goal, it can make it happen. By creating the necessary conditions, maintaining a good implementation track record and using a pro European narrative, it can overcome any possible doubt at EU side, as well as within the Serbian society.

Belgium formed a federal government after almost 500 days post-election. Can you explain to us why Belgium has waited so long for the for-

mation of the government?

— More than any other country in the world, Belgium is characterised by a very specific and complex constitutional setup, with three language-communities, three regions and Brussels, a super diversified cultural melting pot as its capital. Unity in diversity, -or ‘Strength in Unity’, as is mentioned in our national coat of arms, remains our leitmotif. In political terms, with a broad range of parties in all language communities, this requires a readiness to compromise, often after lengthy negotiations, in order to reconcile political points of views that often reflect sharp socio-economic and cultural differences on either side of our language border. Eventually we managed to form a so called ‘Vivaldi’- government, in a delicate equilibrium, composed of 7 parties representing all colours of the ideological and linguistic spectrum, the four Vivaldi-seasons...

It is a relief to the Belgian public to see determinate action of a government supported by a broad parliamentary majority, in the fight against the COVID pandemic. After all, we Belgians can be proud of our highly cultivated, peaceful ‘Art of compromise’.

all business conditions remain on track with the above-mentioned EU requirements.

Belgium is one of the most densely populated countries in the world while Brussels is a hub for international traffic. How is Belgium dealing with COVID-19 today and what can we, in Serbia, learn from Belgium?

— The dire COVID situation in Belgium is indeed largely a consequence of our geographic and demographic reality, that shortens social distances that would otherwise set a brake on the circulation of the virus. Belgium is at the centre of Europe and a hub for international and European travellers, so we had to take strong measures regarding testing, quarantine and travel restrictions. Our figures are high, also because of our testing rates, that are among the highest in Europe, with about 70.000 tests a day for a 11 MIO population.

Against the backdrop of the Belgian experience, I see two main lessons to be drawn. First it is obvious that authorities should not wait too long to issue measures to curb the

The Embassy tries to maintain the tradition of supporting events that promote bilateral cultural exchange

What do you think of the overall cooperation - bilateral and economic - between our two countries and what can be improved?

— We have been experiencing excellent bilateral relations and I hope we will soon see this reflected as well in an increase of contacts at the highest political level. Both governments and parliaments are now fully operational, and we are also eagerly waiting for the resumption of post-corona people- to- people contacts. Bilateral trade has suffered during the COVID crisis, but I am quite confident that trade and investment will get back to the usual growth path. Indeed, during my recent contacts and visits to Belgian companies established in Serbia I have noticed the readiness to step up and expand investments and increase trade. Serbia is considered a stable market with growth potential, provided Serbia continues its path towards EU accession and over-

infection rate, even when this is at a low level, such as it the case today in Serbia. Preventive action enables better management of the crisis, before it explodes in our face. And secondly: all too often some people, also in responsible positions in society, do not adequately realise the seriousness of the situation. Our own individual behaviour should be geared towards not only protecting one’s own health but in the first place that of our fellow citizens. Lack of discipline in keeping social distance, wearing masks and hand hygiene will inevitably make it difficult to uphold hitherto remarkably good COVID-19 records. The need for solidarity between countries has been amply commented, but more importantly even is the need for good civic behaviour and solidarity within society, between generations…

The Belgian Embassy (in Belgrade) is often a patron of cultural events and we are also learning from you how to be better in the field of human rights. What projects does the Embassy plan to implement by the year-end, despite the pandemic?

— The Embassy tries to maintain the tradition of supporting events that promote bilateral cultural exchange.

We have sponsored the Saxperience Festival (of which the Embassy is a patron, as country of origin of the inventor of the Saxophone) and later this year contemporary dancer Lisbeth Gruwez will participate in the Belgrade Dance Festival. Belgian conductor B.Haemhouts brilliantly conducted ArtLink concerts in the superb Kalemegdan setting and in the next weeks a Serbian mural painter will be invited to Brussels, in the framework of the Balkan Trafik festival.

Belgium has no lessons to teach in the area of human rights, but we do want to share our attachment to the concept of European Union as a community of rights and basic values,such as gender equality, LGTB+ and minority rights, or media freedom-, that member states subscribe to, and defend on the world stage. The Embassy will support every action that promotes progress in that direction, as it will bring Serbia closer to the EU.

Impressions You have been living in Serbia for two years now. What are your impressions of Belgrade?

— I am privileged to be one of the few Ambassadors to live in the centre of town, close to the heartbeat of political, cultural and commercial Belgrade.

My wife and I have got really fond of this city, and

I walk a lot to discover its often hidden treasures.

Belgrade should be proud of its cultural heritage, and preserve it. Urban planning is a challenge, as well as the increasing mobility problems and air pollution, that need to be tackled sooner than later.

At Embassy level we are looking at the possibility

of installing solar panels, and working hard to solve an accessibility problem outside our perimeter. I am convinced the upcoming collaboration between the Brussels Region and Belgrade may become a source of inspiration to advance in these areas and make Belgrade even more attractive.

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“Unity Makes Strength“ If we talk about 2021, not knowing what the impact of the new wave will lead to, we will continue the work with and service to our members to the maximum, online, direct contacts and hopefully by mid of next year in a live event

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his year should have been a celebration year, 10 years of The Belgian Serbian Business Association, BSBA, which president since its establishment is mr. Hugo van Veghel.

With Mr. Veghel we spoke about the impact of pandemic on the economy, Belgium companies in Serbia and the result of the survey, visit of young and dynamic team from Belgium as well as about plans for 2021.

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This year was very difficult for Serbia and the whole Europe. What impact did this whole situation have on the economy?

— Let’s not reiterate too much on what is written, said or broadcasted on the economic impact of this pandemic. For sure we haven’t seen everything yet.

In a short survey among our members we noted that they are aware of it and prepare for worse as the majority already indicated a negative impact on their turnover. And this new assertiveness leads to the “positive” side of the situation; innovation is mainly the result of an action induced by problems and certainly conflicts. Our companies have indicated changes in marketing strategies and development of new, customised products, innovations, wherever possible. Unfortunately, a less favourable position was noted in those in the mining sector.

Is there any changes in number of Belgium companies operating in Serbia?

— At this moment we have a status quo. Despite the difficult circumstances we had in September a visiting party from the Belgian fashion and garment sector. A young dynamic team developed a new product for which they found a Serbian company

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HUGO VAN VEGHEL BSBA President

to deliver a prototype. The team returned with satisfaction of the work, dialogue with and the attitude of the potential partner. The aim is a longterm cooperation between the development and production units.

What does our economic cooperation look like after the whole situation with the coronavirus?

— Maybe it is still not so bad as many might think. Our survey showed that several companies started sourcing from new suppliers, local suppliers.

One of the main concerns of companies is cash flow. Sourcing from the local market instead of the international market is one of the measures that seems to be applied more than before.

Despite the difficult circumstances we had in September a visiting party from the Belgian fashion and garment sector

Serbian government helped companies to overcome the crisis. What do you think about economic measures?

— All our members that participated in the survey, with exception of one, used the support measures from the government. Those who did were all using the minimum-wage -support.

The moratorium was considered useful by 80% and was welcomed as a tool to increase the cash flow. The same 80% would like to see some financial programmes like low interest credit lines or credit guarantees. The same group sees benefit in reduction of tariff on imported inputs, tax waivers or temporary tax breaks. Less in demand, but not least important are possible employment programmes (e.g. temporary employment programs or social security waivers).

Do you have any info or data about how Belgium companies in Serbia are affected by the crisis?

— From our recent survey we saw that 80% is moderately or strongly affected and saw revenues or sales slight-

ly or significantly down. No surprise that 50% of all respondents has affected investment plans.

As one of our members underlined; “we cannot anticipate the future situation, but we can make ourselves more flexible, what we did with respect to keep the quality of our services on high level”. We know that 80% applied the remote work modus and 50% increased marketing efforts, customised or developed new products.

Worth mentioning is that all of the responding companies were holding on to all staff without reduction in operational hours, shifts or wages.

What will be priorities of BSBA in 2021?

— This year should have been a celebration year, 10 years BSBA, which I proudly preside since its establishment. We are a voluntary association which is able to serve its members due to committed voluntary board members, representatives of members but also our Ambassadors, Heads and staffs of the Economic and Trade Office. Also, the BSBA developed its flexibility, seminars were transformed in online events; cooperation with other business clubs or chambers of commerce was very successful in this respect, all driven by a dynamic executive director. Even our board meetings went mainly online. So, if we talk about 2021, not knowing what the impact of the new wave will lead to, we will continue the work with and service to our members to the maximum, online, direct contacts and hopefully by mid of next year in a live event.

To this end we underline the use of safety measures, the attitude of respect for each and every one, and unity in this unfair battle. The Belgian moto is not in vain “UNITY MAKES STRENGTH“.

We Built Two Wind Farms and Started New Projects READ THIS ON WEB

licio is the only Belgian company in Serbia that generates electricity from wind energy. It has built two wind farms in Serbia - Malibunar (8MW) and Alibunar (42MW) and started developing new projects in South Banat area.

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As a Belgian company, are you satisfied with the investment environment in Serbia?

— Belgium has become one of the leading producers of renewable energy in Europe and worldwide. Last year, more than 1.34 million households were supplied with energy produced from wind. In Belgium, almost 4,000 MW of power has been installed in wind turbines onshore and offshore, which is 10 times more than in Serbia. We are glad that we have managed to transfer the knowledge in Serbia and to invest. Our two wind farms make up 12 per cent of the wind energy market in Serbia. We have invested more than 90 million euro. The World Bank’s IFC Group and several privately owned banks from Serbia have participated in the financing of the Alibunar WF project, which shows a lot about the quality of the project.

We have been operating in Serbia for more than 10 years. In the beginning, it was difficult, but with the adoption of contemporary Law on Energy and the Law on Planning and Construction, the investment environment has significantly improved.

Green energy is not an alternative.

It is the future. I think that both the authorities and people are aware of this fact.

Elicio has built two wind farms in Alibunar and announced new projects in South Banat area.

— We have started developing several projects in South Banat area, in the territory of the City of Pančevo. The total capacity of all projects

Serbia is a great place for investments. After the constitution of the new government, we expect continuity and even progress. Serbia must go green is over 200MW. We have cleared all legal and property issues and rented land plots from private owners. We are now waiting for the Assembly of the City of Pančevo to adopt a Decree on the Detailed Planning Regulation. We have already spent significant funds on preparing the relevant documentation.

In addition, we have not given up on Alibunar yet in sense of increasing our capacities and developing new projects.

What are the benefits for municipalities in which you develop and implement projects?

— The Municipality of Alibunar has received significant funds from the annual property tax. Also, we have started the implementation of the Profit Sharing Agreement, according to which the municipality receives part of the profit generated by WF Alibunar every year. Although 2020 has been difficult because no incentive measures were in place due to the pandemic, we still set aside almost 2.2 million dinars as a donation for heating in the school in Banatski Karlovac. In previous years, we donated a garbage truck, funds for medication to the health centre, schools, events, ceremonies, etc. That is how we operate in every municipality that treats us like a reliable investor.

What are your and Elicio expectations in the RES sector in Serbia in the next period after the constitution of the Government of the Republic of Serbia?

— We expect continuity, even progress.

The feed-in tariff period is over. We are pleased that a project has been launched with the EBRD aimed at adopting new regulation and introducing an auction system. Our company has projects in France and Belgium and we participated in auctions there. We are ready to help Serbia

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CHRISTOPHE BOLS Elicio, Country Manager, Serbia

We have started the development of several projects in South Banat area, territory of City of Pancevo.

The total capacity of all projects is more than 200 MW

with our knowledge and experience in auctions. Also, we believe that, in the future, it will be possible to implement projects without state incentives which are completely commercial. But we will need the state’s support in terms of faster adoption of planning documentation, grid connection approvals, possible tax relief, etc. In return, Serbia will get more green energy, which is a direct contribution to a healthy environment.

For 2020, Serbia had to comply with international regulation to produce and consume 27 per cent of the energy produced from RES. All European countries will have more demanding goals for 2030, so the expected target for Serbia is over 30 per cent. We, as serious investors, are ready to support Serbia with our projects in order for the country to fulfil its international obligations.

What distinguishes Elicio as a serious investor in the field of RES, in Serbia and generally?

— We have been operating in Europe for two decades, and we have been present in Serbia for a decade.

We trusted the state, invested money, and obtained bank guarantees even when the sector was new and unpredictable to Serbia. We have the knowhow for project development, construction monitoring and operation of wind farms in Serbia with the cooperation of our HQ in Belgium. We participated with 20 million euro of equity in the financing of Alibunar WF, while IFC and commercial banks allocated 60 million euro as a loan.

We manage and maintain our power plants. We are socially responsible to the local community. During development, construction and operation, we employed, directly or indirectly, a significant number of experts and workers. We fulfil all obligations towards the state and municipality such as paying tax.

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BELGIUM

Positive Trend in Mutual Trade We are very pleased to have been witnessing a positive trend in the volume of trade between Belgium and Serbia for several years now. Last year, the total value of exports and imports amounted to about 600 million euro I N T E RV I E W

elgian companies that have decided to invest in Serbia are active in various sectors such as the food, metal and IT industry and they are also quite active in the segment of renewable energy sources, construction and chemical industry. Economic relations between the two countries are developing steadily but there is still room for improvement.

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Economic relations between Belgium and Serbia are good and they are constantly progressing. What do you think of Belgian investments in Serbia?

— Many Belgian companies are present in Serbia through their long-standing local partners, who represent an important link in connecting the two business communities. Positive experiences of existing investors are crucial for attracting new investments.

It is always good news when Belgian companies, that have already invested in Serbia, inform us that they are planning to broaden their activities here.

It is very important that potential investors can count on a properly regulated, stable and predictable business environment. These are crucial conditions for making strategic decisions such as investing in a country.

Belgian companies in Serbia are generally satisfied with the business environment, and although Serbia has a lot to offer, the country still needs to work on improving the rule of law,

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MARIJANA MILOŠEVIĆ TUFEGDŽIĆ Economic and Trade Counsellor at the Embassy of Belgium

Serbian raspberries are certainly popular among Belgian consumers, because Serbia mostly exports food to Belgium, or more precisely agricultural products

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as well as raising the efficiency of the legal system and public institutions.

Is there room for improving economic cooperation and what is an opportunity for progress?

— Economic relations between Belgium and Serbia are continuously progressing, but there is always room for further advancement. The European Commission has recently presented the Economic and Investment Plan for the Western Balkans, to accelerate the long-term economic recovery of the region, support the green and digital transition, connect the countries of the region and help them on their path to the EU membership.

Despite its size, Belgium is a leader in many industries, and there are indeed many areas in which it is possible to improve or develop this cooperation. Environmental protection, water treatment, waste management and renewable energy sources are certainly some of the areas in which Serbia needs a lot of support. Also, areas such as IT, construction, smart city solutions, food industry and innovation in various sectors, provide an excellent basis for further cooperation, as well as for the transfer of technology and know-how between the two countries.

Both countries have introduced measures to combat the COVID-19-induced crisis. What kind of effect are they going to have on companies, including Belgian companies in Serbia, and the trade between the two countries?

— The COVID-19 pandemic has caused an unprecedented global crisis, affecting human health but also the international economy. Various lockdown measures around the world have almost stopped economic activity in some sectors, and in other sectors, they have extremely disrupted it. Although both countries have supported their economies through various mechanisms and aid packages, the consequences will certainly be felt. This is stated in the reports and forecasts of various institutions such as the WB, EBRD or IMF. The global projection says that the global economy will decline by around 4 per cent this year. The projected decline of the EU economy is over 8 per cent, while the decline in the Western Balkan region is expected to be around 4.8 per cent, which is 1.7 per cent lower than a preliminary assessment in April. We assume that COVID-19 will have consequences on the volume of the trade between our two countries but hopefully not for long.

Our office represents three Belgian regional agencies specializing in export promotion: hub.brussels https:// hub.brussels/en/, AWEX https://www. awex-export.be/, and Flanders Investment and Trade https://www. flandersinvestmentandtrade.com/.

We are trying to maintain and deepen the ties between the Belgian and Serbian business communities in these special times as well. Thus, we have recently organized quite successful virtual meetings between Belgian companies and their potential Serbian partners, as well as a very interesting webinar on the environmental sector in Serbia and the opportunities that open up in this area for Belgian companies. Simply, life must go on and the economy and international trade must function.

How can Serbian companies become more visible in the Belgian market?

— Serbian exports to Belgium have been growing year-on-year, but there is certainly still a lot of room for improving cooperation. The Belgian market is demanding and the competition is very strong, but I am sure that Serbian companies have a lot to offer. Serbian raspberries are certainly popular among Belgian consumers,

nies the opportunity to test Brussels as their business location for three months. By obtaining the right to the so-called "Welcome Pack", they also get access to office space, as well as a wide range of free services.

because Serbia mostly exports food to Belgium, or more precisely agricultural products. However, companies from many other areas, such as the furniture or machine-building industry, have also found their way to Belgian customers. Their experiences are valuable for those companies that would like to research the Belgian market. The programme devised by our agency hub.brussels Why Brussels (http://why.brussels/ try-brussels-for-free) is also very interesting, as it offers foreign compa-

The global projection says that the global economy will decline by around 4 per cent this year

What challenges do you expect to experience by the year-end given the ongoing crisis?

— The COVID-19 pandemic has caused a global shock to the world economy. There was a simultaneous disruption of both supply and demand, considering how international economic flows are intertwined. It is difficult to predict what other challenges await us. All economies have been hit, and although the situation varies from country to country, the result will depend a lot on what the pandemic will cause in the last quarter of this year. However, we have all been gaining pandemic-related experience for months, so now we know better how to behave and what the effects of various economic measures and business decisions are. Business people are trying to adapt to the new circumstances as much as possible, as well as to think in the framework of the "new normal" and achieve as much as possible at this moment.

TerraCalco 95 is Now Available to Farmers Throughout the Balkans Company Carmeuse has continued to invest in agriculture sector on the Balkan.

As announced in previous year, Belgium company has completed a planned project, despite the global crisis caused by the Covid19 pandemic fter the completion of the investment in Serbia in 2019 and with a clear vision and desire to help farmers in the whole Balkans region, company Carmeuse has completed the installation of a new plant for production of new generation of soil amendment in Doboj B&H. What is TerraCalco 95? TerraCalco 95 is a product designed to modify and improve soil quality through many changes in physical and chemical soil properties, with a major impact on soil biological activity. It's eliminates the appearance of soil acidity, significantly improves soil structure, improves water-air potential, increases the utilization of mineral fertilizers, accelerates the mineralization of organic matter, promotes the development of bacteria.

The TerraCalco 95 is water-soluble, ap-

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plied in small doses - more than 98% of the active substance, it's granulated, so the application is simple and quick with the use of standard mineral fertilizer spreaders.

Now, TerraCalco 95 is widely on the Balkan market, it’s available to farmers in Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia and Slovenia. The first reactions of satisfied users are arriving.

“I visited the plots and I was very pleasantly surprised by the results. Sunflower is making great progress; the plants are more robust than on the neighboring plots, and despite the fact that they were all sown on the same day, the same hybrid, and the same agro-technical measures but only I used TerraCalco 95. I have never had a better crop”. Saša Grbić, Vlajkovac, Serbia. www.carmeuse.com

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Great Potential for Better Cooperation There are currently 111 companies from various sectors operating on the Serbian market that were founded or have Belgian capital in them

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communication (10), real estate activities 8), construction (6), transportation and storage (4), accommodation and catering services (3), water supply and wastewater management (3).

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ccording to the latest available data from the State Statistical Office (SSO), in the first six months of 2020, Serbia’s trade in goods with Belgium amounted to 334.8 million euro and recorded a slight increase of 0.5% compared to the same period in 2019.

The value of our exports amounted to 96.8 million euro, which is a 4% decline relative to the observed period in 2019. The value of imports amounted to 334.8 million euro, a 4% increase. The export to import ratio until June 2020 was 40.7%.

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PRODUCTS THAT SERBIA EXPORTED MOST TO BELGIUM IN THE FIRST HALF OF 2020 Tobacco (completely cured), containers, frozen raspberries, iron or steel products, acetic acid, wooden furniture, medication, ignition conductor sets, other vehicle sets, tobacco and dried tobacco, fruit, cooked, without sugar (source: SSO) PRODUCTS THAT SERBIA IMPORTED MOST FROM BELGIUM IN THE FIRST HALF OF 2020 Unclassified goods in storage, other medication, tobacco cured and dried, tobacco, cured and lightly airdried, polyethylene, tobacco, oriental/sun-dried, trucks, diesel, over 20t, new, assembled, artificial filament cable of cellulose acetate, galvanized

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sheets, unclassified goods in free zones (source: SSO).

Based on the data collated by the Ministry of Finance of the Republic of Serbia - Customs Administration, until 2019, 2,515 business entities in Serbia did business with Belgium.

• Number of business entities net importers from Belgium – 1,992 • Number of business entities net exporters to Belgium - 289 • Number of business entities that are both exporting from and importing to Belgium - 234 • Total number of business entities engaged in foreign trade with Belgium - 2,515

BUSINESS ENTITIES IN SERBIA THAT ARE MAJORITY-OWNED BY BELGIANS 109 active business entities were registered in Serbia which are majority-owned by Belgian nationals or companies registered in Belgium according to the data collated by the Business Registers Agency of the Republic of Serbia, on the territory Serbia, until June 3, 2020.

The largest number of business entities is registered in the following activities: Manufacturing (22), wholesale and retail trade and repair of motor vehicles (22), professional, scientific, innovation and communication activities (12), administrative and support service activities (11), information and

Belgium is a highly developed industrial country that imports raw materials and semi-finished products and exports finished products

POTENTIAL FOR IMPROVING COOPERATION Belgium is a highly developed industrial country that imports raw materials and semi-finished products and exports finished products. Since Belgium has an open economy, finished products of good quality can find their place on the Belgian market, especially food products, clothing and footwear, sports products, cosmetics, furniture, interior decoration products, electrical appliances and toys.

Opportunities for industrial cooperation between Serbian and Belgian companies can be created in the metal processing industry, mechanical engineering, electronics industry, chemical industry and the agrifood sector.

There are currently 111 companies operating on the Serbian market that were founded or have Belgian capital in them. They are active in various sectors – retail, manufacturing, construction, real estate, innovation and technical activities, transport and storage.

Belgian companies interested in the Serbian market want to market their products, namely machinery and industrial equipment, chemical products, textile products, various finished products, but in the transfer of the know-how and technology.

Belgian companies usually enter a market through a local importer or distributor.

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Melt Into Their Chocolates

What could be more comforting than a wonderful piece of chocolate? The famous gastronomic guide Gault&Millau has highlighted the best chocolate makers in Belgium and Luxembourg once again this year he competition is tough among the 97 artisans in this selection. It is true that Belgium well deserves its international reputation when it comes to chocolate. But what are the criteria for deciding between them?

The guide jury simply relies on two essential criteria that combine appearance and taste.

As last year, three winners were nominated in Belgium, representing

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each of the country's regions. This year's 'Discovery of the Year' prize for 'Goût Fou' from Zele (East Flanders) is also worth mentioning.

The winner of this fifth selection for Brussels is Laurent Gerbaud, known for the quality of his cocoa beans, which come from Madagascar, Peru and Ecuador, and also for his pralines, which go beautifully with beer and wine.

In Flanders, the winner was Oliv-

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There are over 2,000 chocolatiers in the country, so anyone who visits Belgium shouldn’t hesitate to try this delicious treat

ier Willems from Ostend. Here, originality meets quality, with original designs combined with intense, balanced flavours, such as the 'James Ensor' praline with its mix of Earl Grey, fleur de sel and praline.

Lastly, in Wallonia, the winner is Benoît Nihant, from Awans in the Liège region. The cocoa bean lies at the core of his work, from its selection to his flagship 'Coeur de Samba' praline. The bean is roasted, crushed and transformed through a perfectly mastered technique that is already enjoyed by many connoisseurs.

These chocolate-makers are proud ambassadors of Belgian know-how, which can be enjoyed in many different ways and should be savoured without delay.

A BRIEF HISTORY OF BELGIAN CHOCOLATE To understand why Belgian chocolates are so famous and deliciously addictive, it is important to know exactly how they are made. The secret to their success lies in the ingredients

used to make them and, of course, in the production process. A law created in 1884 states that a minimum level of 35% cocoa must be used, in order to prevent the usage of low-quality fat sources or other ‘hacks’ to modify the composition. Production starts in the early stages, which includes overseeing how the cocoa beans are planted, the way they are roasted, and which beans are used.

There are several laws and unspoken rules in the chocolate-making community, where traditional manufacturing is preferred. This explains

why there are so many small, independent chocolatiers throughout Belgium. However, even big chocolatiers like Neuhaus have managed to expand outside Belgium, but still continue to use only traditional recipes for their chocolates, many of which are still top secret.

If you’re in Belgium and want to learn about the chocolate-making process in more detail, it is worth visiting the MUCC (the Museum of Cocoa and Chocolate), which is located near the Grand Place, Brussels’ main market square. A new

‘game’ the museum came up with, the Truck game, allows you to walk through the city center of Brussels while discovering the world of chocolate within the city.

Chocolatemakers are proud ambassadors of Belgian knowhow, which can be enjoyed in many different ways and should be savoured without delay

BELGIUM’S CHOCOLATE LEGACY The best known commercial brand of Belgian chocolate is Côte d’Or, which you can find in almost any grocery store in Belgium and in many places around the world. Côte d’Or was founded by Charles Neuhaus in 1870 , who opened a factory shortly after that. The name refers to the Golden Coast, now Ghana in Africa, where the cocoa beans first originated from. The brand is now part of the American multinational company.

Commercial brands are renowned for making delicious chocolates, and their regular chocolate bars, pralines and truffles are definitely a must try when visiting Belgium — but the products of local, independent chocolatiers are certainly worth sampling as well!

To d ay, B el g i a n cho col ate i s world-renowned and continues to play a strong role in the Belgian economy. Overall, there are over 2,000 chocolatiers in the country, so anyone who visits Belgium shouldn’t hesitate to try this delicious treat.

Historical connection Back in the 17th century, explorers brought cocoa beans from South America and introduced them to the Belgian community. At the time, chocolate was a sign of luxury and was mostly used to make ‘hot chocolate’ for nobility or to impress new visitors. King Leopold the Third then made Belgium the number one trader in cocoa and chocolate. It was Jean Neuhaus who first put Belgian chocolate on the map. In 1857, he moved into a pharmacy-cum-sweet shop in

the Galérie de la Reine in Brussels, where he sold plaques of dark chocolate.

Gradually, the apothecary transformed into a real sweet shop, and the first praline was created there in 1912. The hollow chocolate shell with a sweet filling was invented by Jean’s grandson (also named Jean) who also invented the Ballotin, the box in which pralines are wrapped. The Jean Neuhaus store still exists to this day, and is deemed a must-see when visiting Brussels.

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BELGIUM

A Country of Legends and Thrills Any attempt at a general overview of Belgian culture will fall short of the reality, due to the division of the little country into three linguistic groups and the cultural influxes seeping across its borders from the Netherlands, France, Germany, and Luxembourg

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C U LT U R E

he official languages here are German, Dutch, and French, although 33 percent of the inhabitants speak the old tongue of Walloon and a variant of Dutch, Flemish, is spoken by at least 60 percent. Within the three regions of Wallonia, Flanders, and Brussels-Capital, individual cultures flourish, each with their own traditions, folklore, gastronomy, and priorities.

Family values take a central position in the lives of most Belgians for whichever province they call home, as do the values of appearance and

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A small gift is expected when you’re invited to a Belgian home, and punctuality shows respect

cleanliness, both in personal and property matters. As a result, Belgium is a refreshingly tidy, clean country. Although friendly and welcoming, Belgians are somewhat formal in their greeting, with brief handshakes the norm until a friendship or business relationship is fully established.

A small gift is expected when you’re invited to a Belgian home, and punctuality shows respect. If a toast is given, stand up, and it’s polite to eat all you are offered, never mind how full your plate is. All Belgians are extremely proud of their local cuisine, making praising your meal a must.

Belgium’s incredibly rich artistic tradition extends from its artworks to its architecture, music, literature, and traditionally authentic folkloric festivals, with all forming a strong part of the people’s cultural awareness in the present day. Museum and art gallery visits are very popular, and the many medieval old towns are a great source of pride. Even the famous Belgian craft beers have a cultural identity, especially those from the six Belgian Trappist monasteries which are permitted to brew strong ale.

The constant contact with other peoples and cultures hasn't been

without its effects in terms of art and culture, both in the past and the present day. A true crossroads of the major influences of art, Belgium has always been home to a large number of artists and frequently establishes itself as the place for innovation for new movements.

Belgium has preserved much evidence of the greatest architectural and artistic movements. The Middle Ages saw cathedrals and belfries spring up, monuments that still grace the Belgian cities of art. Countless châteaux pepper the countryside and Belgium is the country with the

Belgium has preserved much evidence of the greatest architectural and artistic movements

most châteaux per km2. As for Brussels, in the 20th century, it became the capital of Art Nouveau. All this explains the country's incredible architectural wealth.

The splendid works of the old Flemish painters such as Pierre-Paul Rubens, Pierre Brueghel, Jan Van Eyck, Antoine Van Dyck, along with more recent artists like Paul Delvaux or René Magritte, are now exhibited in museums all over the world.

The ultimate hub for comics, Belgium is home to the largest concentration of comic book authors in the world. They continue the tradition of

Hergé (Tintin), Peyo (Les Schtroumpfs), Edgar P. Jacobs (Blake et Mortimer), Morris (Lucky Luke), Bob De Moor (Barelli, Cori le Moussaillon), Willy Vandersteen (Bob et Bobette) and many more!

Today, many Belgian talents are making a name for themselves. This is particularly the case on the international music scene with Angèle, Milow, Selah Sue and Hooverphonic. On the big screen, a new generation of directors and actors are frequently recognised with awards including the Palme d'Or at Cannes and the Oscars in Hollywood.

History Belgium’s interesting, varied, and frequently violent history goes a long way to explaining the equally varied linguistic and cultural aspects of this small country. In spite of its troubled centuries, Belgium has influenced European art, classical music, literature, and the science of printing considerably, and its people’s pride in their country is well justified.

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BELGIUM

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TOURISM

The Canal, a Bridge Between the City’s Past and its Future How times have changed since Jacques Brel sang of the canal as a synonymous of grey sadness!

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enizens and authorities have been working hard to rehabilitate this special part of Brussels, crossing it south to north. More and more, this area is being seen in a more positive light, illustrating the diversity, history, and range of atmospheres that make up Brussels. And it’s also become a major environmental asset, as biodiversity has been making a comeback thanks to its waters the last few years…

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A link between the past and the future...

Like most major cities, Brussels sprouted from the banks of a river, the Senne. In the 16th century, the need for a stable and navigable waterway translated into the digging of a canal linking Brussels to the Escaut river, and thus the North Sea. In the 19th century, the canal was prolonged southward towards Charleroi and its coal mines. Both eras correspond to periods that saw Brussels flourish and prosper, thanks to the development

of commerce and industry that the canal contributed to boost. …and between the centre and neighbouring municipalities Long considered as a barrier, the Canal, as locals call it, is now turning into the bridge that reconciles the city centre with the rest of the Region.

Since the industrial era, residents have always kept its neighbourhoods and businesses alive. However, this space has struggled to recover from its deindustrialisation phase. But it has been recovering thanks to the valorisation of its industrial heritage, which has been converted into museums, festival sites and other commercial and residential spaces.

A creative hotspot that makes the most of the city's diversity In recent years, creators, artists and other entrepreneurs have contributed to the revitalisation of the central part of the Canal, located between the city centre and the mu-

A promising future From the residential districts in the south to the haven in the north of the city, this waterway is also the ideal axis for developing public transport and soft mobility: crossing the city via the Canal represents an effective solution to traffic issues, whether by boat or bicycle on the

nicipalities of Molenbeek and Anderlecht, from Tours & Taxis, which houses many shops as well as restaurants and a host of events throughout the year, to the abattoirs in Anderlecht where papilla celebrations are held, and to MIMA, the museum of modern art located at the former Belle-Vue brewery, rich in industrial and brewing history.

The Port of Brussels, a haven for businesses With the obvious advantage of direct waterway access, the vast available space managed by the Port of Brussels authorities offer logistic, productive and industrial businesses very interesting opportunities to settle in the Canal area. The central position of this long, city-traversing district make its banks easily accessible to many residential and commercial neighbourhoods, while goods being produced on site are offered easy access to Belgium’s network of canals and ports. No other district in Brussels connects so rapidly to so many other areas inside as well as outside the city.

quays. And ongoing efforts to ensure cleaner water have already led to an encouraging renaissance of biodiversity. All these sustainable development opportunities offer the entire Canal area a dynamic potential that both public authorities and the private sector have already begun exploiting.

No other district in Brussels connects so rapidly to so many other areas inside as well as outside the city

Capital of the kingdom of Belgium is also the capital of Europe A destination that's easy to reach and reasonable prices that won't strain its visitors' pockets, regardless of age.

This cosmopolitan city that loves good food lives life its way and expresses itself in a style very much its own.

Despite its European dimension and despite all the different languages spoken on the corner of every street, Brussels is still inspired by a very "village-like" spirit. Of course, it's well known for its Grand-Place, its Atomium, its Manneken-Pis, its Gueuze and its Kriek, its waffles and its chocolates... (don't miss them!). Take a stroll to Rue Dansaert, Halles Saint-GÊry and Place Sainte-Catherine. Head for Saint-Boniface, Châtelain or Flagey... You'll discover a Brussels that's in the spirit of the times, a capital that's relaxed and comfortable, as much in its history as in its present-day reality. Very fashionable. Very designer. Very creative. In other words, to put it in a nutshell, just relish Brussels, a fine and beautiful city to explore and discover...

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