In 2025, the value of trade between Canada and Belgium rose to $13 billion, showing a big change in their economic relationship. This growth came without major conflicts or political issues, as goods moved more smoothly across the Atlantic. The expansion is more than historical connections; it is based on shared values and strategic economic goals both countries have developed over time.
CETA helped change trade between Canada and Belgium
The Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) between Canada and the European Union, which started in 2017, brought a major change to the economic relationship between Canada and Belgium. From 2016 to 2025, trade between the two countries increased by over 80 percent, showing CETA's strong impact.
With trade at $13 billion in 2025, Belgium is now Canada's fifth-largest trade partner in the EU. However, in a world where digital change is fast and the shift to clean energy is ongoing, this progress is just the start. Even more cooperation is possible, especially as both countries adjust to new global supply chain needs.
Port cooperation boosts Atlantic trade
A major factor in the growth of trade between Canada and Belgium is the partnership between their key ports. The Port of Antwerp-Bruges and North Sea Port are central gateways for European trade, handling large volumes of goods and linking them to the heart of the continent's industry. These ports are not just logistical hubs but important parts of the global supply chain for raw materials and finished products.
At the same time, Canadian ports like Vancouver and Halifax serve as entry points for goods coming into North America. As cooperation between these Atlantic and Pacific ports grows, Canada and Belgium are building a more varied network of trade routes. This variety reduces reliance on a single route and makes supply chains more resilient, especially during global disruptions.
Critical minerals and energy shape the future
The demand for critical minerals such as lithium, nickel, and cobalt is rising quickly as the world moves to cleaner energy and battery-powered tech. Canada has large reserves of these materials, positioning it as a key supplier in the energy transition. In Belgium, companies like Umicore and Solvay are leaders in refining, processing, and recycling these resources.
This complementary setup strengthens the economic bond between the two countries. Canada provides raw materials, and Belgium adds value with its advanced processing skills. Together, they can build a circular system for clean tech production. This approach also supports cooperation in energy areas, especially offshore wind and hydrogen.
Belgian companies such as DEME and Jan De Nul are global experts in offshore wind development. As Canada increases its own wind energy projects, it can gain from the knowledge and experience of Belgian companies. In the hydrogen field, Belgium is building a detailed infrastructure, with the Port of Antwerp-Bruges and the Zeebrugge LNG terminal playing key roles in forming future transatlantic hydrogen networks.
With Canada's hydrogen production potential and Belgium's established infrastructure, the two countries could create a strong energy partnership. By working together, they might push annual trade over $25 billion by the end of the next decade. But achieving this will need ongoing collaboration, innovation, and strategic investment from both sides.
Encouraging cooperation between research centers, startups, technology companies, and universities can help build an innovation ecosystem that is both dynamic and reliable. The life sciences industry is a great example of what this cooperation can achieve.
Canadian and Belgian companies are already partnering closely, and recent investments from firms like UCB show trust in Canada's market, talent, and research. Expanding these partnerships could improve health outcomes globally while driving economic growth for both countries.
Defence and aerospace are promising areas for deeper ties. As NATO founding members, Canada and Belgium share strategic goals and are increasing their focus on strengthening their defence capabilities. Working with trusted allies, supported by innovative firms and matching equipment systems, opens opportunities for industrial cooperation and tech development that go beyond traditional security. These partnerships could lead to joint ventures in next-gen military tech and better compatibility among allied forces.
Economic partnerships, however, depend on people. The success of Canada and Belgium's growing relationship depends on the commitment of business leaders, policymakers, and citizens who recognize the value of working together for a shared future. By building on this foundation of trust and shared values, both countries can take their partnership to the next level. Canada and Belgium are not just trade partners—they are allies.