Goods imports:
~US$ 500 billion per year (world top 17)
Belgium
Belgium — Global Import Market
Belgium is one of the world's largest importers, bringing in roughly US$ 500 billion in goods each year. As home to the EU's institutions and the major port of Antwerp, Belgium is a key European transit and distribution hub with substantial re-export volume.
Market overview — imports by volume
Global share of imports:
~2%
Import reliance:
heavy, with a large re-export role
Notable:
Antwerp is a major gateway for goods entering the EU
Top 10 imported items by value
1. Machinery & mechanical appliances
2. Chemical products & pharmaceuticals
3. Mineral fuels & oils
4. Electrical machinery & electronics
5. Motor vehicles & parts
6. Data-processing & IT equipment
7. Food & beverages
8. Plastics & articles
9. Iron & steel articles
10. Medical & pharmaceutical products
What this means for Canadian exporters
Belgium is a practical entry point into the EU for Canadian exporters, with Antwerp offering a direct logistics gateway. Under CETA, Canadian goods can leverage Belgium's distribution network to reach the wider EU single market efficiently.