Brussels Business City Guide: doing business in Brussels
Belgium’s most important natural resource is human practical intelligence. One example is knowledge of foreign languages. Most business people will speak two, three or four languages, so let them practice their language on you. Belgians are hard workers and do not mind overtime. One-third of Belgians smoke, so be sure to allow a cigarette break during long meetings. Smoking is forbidden in most offices, however; ask if you are in doubt.

Dress code for work depends on company policy. Informal attire is becoming more acceptable, but it's best to ask your local contact before making your first visit. Business people often shake hands when meeting and get to first-name terms quickly. Foreign visitors are usually invited for a quick lunch in a nearby restaurant. On such an occasion alcohol will be offered, but in the company cafeteria it’s soft drinks only.

Brussels is considered a neutral zone in bicultural Belgium. The cultural and economic divide between the French-speaking Walloons and the more prosperous Flemish (Dutch)-speaking Flemings remains a sticky issue. To be on the safe side, don't bring it up in conversation. Addresses in this guide are given in French, the predominant language in Brussels, though streets are all named bilingually.

Brussels business facts

Indicative exchange rates
USD/EUR: 1.30
GBR/EUR: 0.70

Belgium: key economic indicators
Population: 10 million
GDP per head: €25,500
GDP growth: 2%
Unemployment: 12.5%
Interest rate: 2%
Inflation: 2%
Stock market change: +5%
(from Dec 31 2004)

Brussels money matters

Indicative prices of:
Cup of coffee: €1.75
Business lunch: €30
Business dinner: €50
1km taxi ride: €1.44
Local newspaper: €0.85

Average level of:
Belgium salaries: €29,000
Brussels salaries: €33,000
Belgium house prices: €200,000
Brussels house prices: €230,000
Brussels office space: €275/m2/yr