Belgium is set to rekindle its economic relationship with Kuwait through an Economic Mission scheduled for April 29–30, 2025. This marks the first visit of its kind since 2002, signaling a significant milestone in the ties between the two nations.

The mission, led by the Economic and Commercial Counsellor at the Belgian Embassy in Kuwait, Ms. Laurence Heyblom, will include 44 Belgian companies from 12 key sectors. These sectors encompass engineering and industrial, healthcare and medical, technology and ICT, security and safety, energy and sustainability, construction and real estate, retail and trade, education and training, legal and compliance, and food and beverages. The aim is to explore business opportunities and foster new commercial partnerships.

Ms. Heyblom stated that the mission is focused not just on trade but also on building lasting relationships. She emphasized the objective to showcase the diversity and innovation of Belgian companies and assist them in understanding the Kuwaiti market better. Despite Belgium’s substantial global economic presence, with a GDP of approximately $600 billion and exports representing 85% of its economic output, many Kuwaitis are only familiar with its famous products like waffles, fries, and chocolate.

Key Belgian firms such as DEME, which specializes in dredging and marine infrastructure, John Cockerill, known for industrial engineering and environmental technology, and GSK Biologicals, a leading pharmaceutical company in vaccine production, will participate in this mission. Ms. Heyblom highlighted that the Port of Antwerp is Europe’s second-largest port and the world’s second-largest petrochemical hub, reinforcing Belgium’s role as a strategic trade and industrial gateway to Europe.

Trade relations between Belgium and Kuwait are already showing promise, with Belgium’s main exports to Kuwait consisting of chemicals (40%), food (18.6%), and machinery (11%). Conversely, imports from Kuwait are largely made up of mineral products, which account for 97.6% of total imports. This mission aims to not only boost trade volumes with Kuwait but also lay the groundwork for long-term partnerships and elevate the bilateral relations to new heights.