Belgian food industry… The best kept secret

Belgian cuisine is one of the most highly praised in Europe. It is a well-deserved reputation too, placing Belgium among those countries where delicious food is not a hollow phrase but a veritable part of the country’s culture. Belgians love high-quality cuisine and enjoy sharing it with good company.

It is, therefore, not surprising that this quality and reputation are also reflected in the food industry. Belgium is a ‘great food country’ in the heart of Europe. Aside from well-known Belgian products such as beer, ‘frites’ and chocolates, Belgium also boasts a wide range of highly successful companies.

… A robust and fast growing industry

The Belgian Food & Drink sector shows strong growth compared to other countries and industries. Between 2000 and 2010, the sector grew 47 % in terms of total turnover, which is significantly more than other industrial sectors. The Belgian food industry also grew faster compared to neighbouring countries like France and Germany.

Exports of Belgian food represent a significant part of that growth. Since 2002, export increased with an average of 5 % per year. In 2012, export represented 52,1 % of total turnover, i.e. € 24,3 billion.

As a result of that growth, employment in the food industry remained firm, and even increased despite the downward trend in employment experienced by other manufacturing industries. The Belgian food industry provides over 120.000 jobs.

… A quality industry

Optimal efficiency and products with superior quality and taste are key for the Belgian food industry. Employees are continuously trained to be ‘masters’ of quality management. Developing the skills of the workforce increases the productivity of food companies and enables continuous improvements in the quality of food products.

Belgian food products are of impeccable quality and safety. The Belgian food industry is subject to stringent food safety standards. The safety and quality of food products produced and consumed in Belgium are rigorously monitored by the Federal Agency for the Safety of the Food Chain. Compulsory self-checking system is one of the foundations of their policy: all companies active in the food supply chain – from raw materials to end products – must provide proof that they have taken all the necessary measures to guarantee maximum food safety. © IPV-IFP/ Lies Willaert

… An innovative industry

The Belgian food industry is aware of the importance of research and innovation in the development of its activities. Through innovation, the food sector is able to develop products that satisfy the most demanding consumers.

Belgian food companies are continuously looking for better nutrition for better health, with a variety of tastes and for different cultures. © IPV-IFP/ Lies Willaert In a highly competitive international environment, innovation is also a determining factor in the future of food companies. Innovation and competitiveness go hand in hand!

About FEVIA FEVIA is the federation of food companies in Belgium. FEVIA plays the role of interface between the industrial companies in the sector and the socio-economic environment in which they carry out their activities. FEVIA recently endorsed an ambitious strategy for sustainable growth of the Belgian food sector in both local and external markets based on the excellence in food and the boost of exports.

Fevia represents (2012): - Employment: - Turnover: € 46,589 billion FEVIA, Avenue des arts 43 More than 120.000 including - Added value: € 6,710 billion 1040 Brussels – Belgium  89.372 direct employees - Exports: € 24,3 billion Nadia Lapage  15.000 self employed - Imports: € 22,3 billion Coordinator FOOD.be  13.000 temporary workers - Investments: € 1,28 billion +32 (0)2 550 17 50 - Number of employers: 4.768 [email protected]