Flemish exports fall for third year amid weaker global demand

Exports from Flanders fell by 4.1% in 2025 to €402 billion, marking a third consecutive annual decline, according to preliminary figures from Statistiek Vlaanderen. The drop became more pronounced in the second half of the year.

The fall was largely driven by reduced trade with countries outside the EU and a decline in pharmaceutical exports. Officials noted that one major Flemish pharma firm shifted distribution to Wallonia, meaning those exports are no longer counted in Flemish figures.

Imports also declined, down 1.8% to €404 billion, leaving Flanders with a small trade deficit. Lower imports were recorded from countries including the Netherlands, China and the UK, particularly in oil products, vehicles and chemicals.

Key goods such as vehicles, energy products, pharmaceuticals, machinery and plastics made up nearly half of both exports and imports. However, pharmaceuticals and oil lost share in exports. Pharmaceutical imports, in turn, increased.

Flemish minister-president Matthias Diependaele said exports remain above pre-pandemic levels despite the downturn. Trade fell sharply with the United States and the United Kingdom, but Flanders retained its position as the EU’s fifth-largest exporter.

The European Union remains Flanders’ main trading partner, accounting for 69% of exports. Neighbouring countries Germany, France and the Netherlands are particularly important. Trade also grew with Spain, Portugal and Poland.

Diependaele warned that global uncertainty requires “continued vigilance” and urged diversification and stronger trade links to maintain resilience.

Flanders still dominates Belgian trade, accounting for 80% of exports and 85% of imports. Brussels also saw a decline in exports, while Wallonia recorded growth of 11.2%.

^{© BELGA PHOTO POOL JOHANNA GERON}