Best of Belgium

B E S T

O F

BELGIUM Volume

2

GVPedia.com

Showcasing Belgian Achievement… Welcome to the second volume of ‘Best of Belgium,’ in which we showcase this nation’s contemporary achievement, from the arts and fashion to business and innovation. This publication is built on a number of key elements. Firstly, there are the stories about Belgium’s best—the companies and organization profiled in this book are true leaders in their field. Also, these are the organizations that made this book possible and are helping to spread it around the world. Secondly, as editor, we wrote a number of articles—placed throughout the publication— that discuss some of the key Belgian achievements from the past year or two. Third, we invited a number of influential Belgians to contribute a personal vision statement—for example, see the contributions by Thomas Leysen from the Federation of Belgian Enterprises and Guy Quaden, chairman of the National Bank of Belgium. As publishers we express our gratitude to a number of organizations for their support in distributing this publication around the world. In particular these include this country’s Chambers of Commerce, the federal chamber, the regional chambers and the many international chambers that promote business links with our main trade partners. Also we thank Brussels Export, Flanders Investment & Trade, AWEX (Walloon Export Agency), the Federal Agency for Foreign Trade (organizer of the royal trade missions) and the Federal Public Service of Foreign Affairs for distributing the book to all corners of the world. ‘Best of Belgium’ will also go out to our colleagues in the Global Village Partnerships network, from Dubai and India to Australia and South Africa. Have a look at gvpedia.com to see how our network is growing. In the years ahead, ‘Best of Belgium’ will continue to document Belgian achievement, relying on the fact that Belgium is representative of a dynamic, creative Europe, a beacon of liberal democracy and social justice, where individuals have the space and inspiration to create that which makes our world a better place, be it in the realm of business, art or ideas. For Volume III expect deeper and sharper analysis, more vision articles by leading Belgians, and great photography. International Group Publisher Sven Boermeester Publisher and Editor Frank Boermeester Commercial Director Koen Christiaens Media Consultants Maarten Roofthooft, Joris De Wilder Editorial Contributors Peter Farlam Printing Antilope Printing Creative Direction Peter Batistich, Graham Cooper Photography Douglas Moors, Compagnie Gagarine Tervuursesteenweg 133/2 3001 Leuven Belgium Tel: +32 16 223669 Fax: +3216 292095 Email [email protected] [email protected] Website www.thefifthconference.com www.gvpedia.com Published by The Fifth Conference bvba ISBN # 9789079056002

© Christophe Ketels / Compagnie Gagarine

Disclaimer Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information in the Best of Belgium vol.2 publication. Neither Best of Belgium nor The Fifth Conference bvba take any responsibility for errors or omissions. All rights reserved: No part of this publication shall be reproduced, copied, transmitted, adapted or modified in any form or by any means. This publication shall not be stored in whole or in part in any form in any retrieval system.

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Best of Belgium



Economy and Industry

Turnover 2008 US$ 8 000 000

Employees & Partners 100

Circulation 500 000

International Head offices London, Brussels Dubai, Cairo Bangalore, Singapore Washington DC, Santiago Sydney, Johannesburg

Management Sven Boermeester Lisa Durante Charles Neil Leon Swartz Warren Haley

CELEBRATE SUCCESS With its mission to serve as the premier platform for showcasing and networking the world's top brands and companies in business, tourism and lifestyle, Global Village Partnerships (GVP) is building an atlas of success, sustainability and culture. This is carried out through the 'Best of' book series, the Global Village online information portal and the development of an ever expanding business network of international partners and clients.

Brand Image Branding a Nation, a City and its People GVP brands and builds the image of the world’s most exciting economic regions to affect a change in the perception of a nation, a city and its people by the rest of the world. This then promotes the region in terms of its investment opportunities, key industries, innovations, people, culture, tourism potential and international objectives.

Product - The Folders Fast track to the world Market Essentials works closely with Foreign Embassies, High Commissions, International Chambers of Commerce and Trade Associations worldwide to produce high quality trade folders. Each folder is designed to offer support and advice to companies interested in trading with or investing in overseas markets.

Product - The Books Celebrate your success The 'Best of…' publishing series produces annual maxi format book publications in over 30 territories, from Bangalore to Belgium. These detail success stories of people and companies making positive inroads into the commercial fibre of both mature and emerging markets. The books showcase entrepreneurial spirit; establishing powerful global networks and the creation of individual brand awareness by bridging cultures. The result is the ultimate interactive corporate gift and P.R. marketing tool for governments, companies, hotels and business people providing leading products and services for their region.

Product - www.gvpedia.com Connecting the world's most interesting people and organisations The portal provides GVP customers an interactive Public Relations Box managed by a user friendly 'Enterprise Content Management System' that allows clients to upload their press releases, photos, videos and management profiles. The latest networking add-ons and social media applications are integrated within the site providing maximum reach and feedback. The value proposition for subscribers to gvpedia.com essentially covers four elements: exposure, expertise, exclusivity and networking.

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Sven Boermeester, Chairman with Lisa Durante, Managing Partner, GVP

Market Promote and network the 'red apples" within each economy GVP’s market sectors embrace publishing, public relations, corporate gifting, online community building and networking. Its target market covers large, medium and small entrepreneurial organisations enjoying growth, success and sustainability. GVP explores every geographic region to pick the 'red apples' in business, exports, innovation, design, fashion, retail, hospitality, specialty foods, the arts and more. Unique Selling Point (USP) New markets create new business opportunities GVP publications promote, showcase and network successful economies, organisations

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and individuals from across the globe. The organisation celebrates success and provides recognition amongst its ever expanding international network of influential clients. Its online portal, www.gvpedia.com, provides a platform for clients and readers to network, share best practice and grow new markets, creating exciting new business connections and opportunities. Corporate Social Responsibility There is no success without ethics and sustainability The best of world business, travel and lifestyle within the Global Village is dependent on more than monetary profit. There is no success without core values such as sustainability, integrity and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). GVP’s exclusive client base is selected by

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invitation only based on these criteria, with the added focus of dedicated chapters covering CSR, sustainability, green innovation and giving back to the community. Growth and Opportunity Exchanging knowledge, skills and economies of scale in media With regional head offices in 5 continents, the organisation is currently involved in more than 30 territories where the 'Best of' series is published. GVP has a 5-year growth plan to develop a further 150 economic territories organically, through each continent’s regional head office, and through partnerships with companies and individuals that have the expertise to showcase their city, state or country.

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Best of Belgium

Best of Belgium Distribution Partners Federal Government and Regional Export Organisations

Belgian Chambers of Commerce

Vlaams netwerk van ondernemingen

Belgian Chambers of Commerce abroad

Belgian Luxembourg Chamber of Commerce in Ireland www.blcc.ie

Hotels



Best of Belgium

Brussels You thought you knew it... Foreword from the Brussels-Capital Region

Brussels will never cease to surprise you. A national and European capital, it is now giving itself the means to achieve its ambitions and entering fully into the modern world with an ambitious International Development Plan. Brussels is a major city on a human scale, officially bilingual but in reality polyglot. The Capital of Europe is a crossroads of nationalities, a model of welcome and diversity, and a byword for dynamism and quality. Its open socio-economic environment, the high skill levels of its population, the quality of its infrastructures, the wide range of properties available, its quality of life and its cultural richness have made Brussels one of

the most pleasant cities to live and work in. Brussels is changing to meet the challenges of a globalised city. Brussels has just set itself an International Development Plan, which timetables the numerous actions to allow Brussels to better satisfy the desires of its inhabitants and visitors. Alongside the creation of new housing, businesses and offices, the International Development Plan provides for the creation of major infrastructures to help increase the appeal of Brussels still further: a huge conference centre, an expansive shopping centre, a large concert hall (15,000 seats), a multi-function stadium with 60,000 seats, etc. Strategic locations such as the European

Quarter, the Heysel Plateau and the area around Gare du Midi, the gateway to the city, will be renovated in order to make them highly attractive poles of development. The International Development Plan involves a major drive based around City Marketing, in order to strengthen the promotion of Brussels abroad so that the world is aware of all the resources that Brussels has to offer. So, come and feel the pulse of tomorrow’s Europe for yourself. You will discover a warm city offering open arms to the world, a city of creativity where culture is found as much on the streets as in prestigious museums. A global city where everyone is at home.

Best of Belgium



Foreword

Foreword by Minister-President Kris Peeters, Flemish Government

Dear reader, Flanders is the number two region in Europe for foreign direct investment. This ranking was reported in early 2008 by the Financial Times’ magazine-report on foreign direct investment. No doubt this ranking is the result of a clear vision on Flanders’ socio-economic future and its commitment to take firm action. And Flanders continues to create an increasing number of opportunities for foreign investors. Flanders is a prosperous region. Compared to other nations worldwide, our education system, health and welfare facilities, cultural agenda and mobility and communication infrastructure are of the highest quality. We work hard to keep Flanders’ prosperity at this high level in our rapidly changing world. Flanders in Action - safeguarding the future To cope adequately with future challenges, we have launched ‘Flanders in Action’, a number of coordinated socio-economic initiatives that optimize Flanders’ key strengths. Within this framework, we strive to maximize the full potential of our already highly reputed workforce. Its creative, innovative and entrepreneurial mindset is essential to Flanders’ future. We also look inward and continue to upgrade the services that our government administration has to offer. And as an open-minded region, we stay on top of new trends and new ideas from every corner of our globalized world. Sustainability is a focal point in all of our initiatives. This is especially so for the further development of



Best of Belgium

our central, geographical position in Europe and, more specifically, for our transport connections with the European hinterland. Flanders Port Area - streamlining our gateways Flanders is world-famous for its role as a major gateway to Europe. Our region holds no less than four seaports: Antwerp, Zeebrugge, Ghent and Ostend. Each of them plays a world-leading role in its own specialist niche, from the chemical industry to the transshipment of new cars, the import of citrus fruit juices and much, much more. Under the umbrella ‘Flanders Port Area’, these ports have formed a unique strategic alliance to cooperate. By streamlining their operations, they increase the efficiency of the services that are relied upon by the many multinationals based in or around these prime gateways to Europe. Creating a business-friendly environment Flanders aspires to create a businessfriendly environment for companies from all industries and from all over the world. Have a look at what Flanders’ knowledgebased, innovation-driven economy has to offer today. I’m confident you’ll be amazed at how many different market segments can be found in such a small territory. Yours truly, Kris Peeters Minister-president of Flanders

Foreword by Rudy Demotte, Minister-President of the Walloon Government Wallonia, a region to invest in! Did you know that the number 1 in digital cinema equipment is a Walloon company? That the most amazing James Bond or Harry Potter scenes were filmed using flying cameras made in Liège? That the voice technology used in the BMW Series 5 or the Mercedes Class S is produced by a company in Mons? Perhaps you’re unaware that 90% of the world market in radioisotopes, used in medical diagnostics, derives from a spin-off in Louvain-la-Neuve, or that every second 35 doses of vaccines are produced in Genval and distributed all over the world. But perhaps you may have heard that 95% of the slow-motion replays at the Beijing Olympics will be provided by a Walloon technology. We mention all of these examples simply to let you know that Wallonia is a region of success stories. Wallonia is also a region that is very open to the rest of the world, and one whose appeal is internationally recognised. Thus, an analysis conducted in March 2008 by the Economist Intelligence Unit ranked Belgium in 5th place worldwide for flows of direct foreign investment, and in 2nd place in Europe. It concluded that within Belgium, it is Wallonia that offers foreign investors “the greatest growth potential of the three regions”. The foreign investment statistics speak for themselves in this regard. And behind the numbers, recent months have been marked by some famous names: Baxter, Johnson & Johnson, Google and Microsoft. This popularity has not come about by chance. Wallonia enjoys an exceptional location, at the very heart of Europe and on the intersection between its three capitals: Brussels, Strasbourg and Luxembourg. 65% of the European market is within immediate reach, with 400 million consumers capable of being reached in a day. Against this background, Wallonia has plenty of space to offer – 13,500 hectares of new land currently being readied for business and research – at prices that defy competition (between 10 and 50 €/m²). All this territory is served by the densest road networks in the world, along with an expanding waterways system and two thriving regional airports in Liège and Charleroi (500,000 tonnes of freight and more than 2.5 million passengers) with exceptionally good accessibility. Wallonia is also a very favourable environment for business. In addition to the fiscal measures taken at Belgian level, the Walloon government has implemented an intelligent tax system by doing away with all regional, provincial and local taxes hindering economic growth. There have also been important measures to reduce inheritance and gift taxes. The strength of our region

also lies in its citizens, who are well-trained and deliver productivity above the European average. There is a strong emphasis on innovation, with 9 universities, 300 research centres and some 11,000 researchers. This research activity is closely linked with business, as witnessed in particular by our 5 competitiveness clusters which provide active networking in the domains where we can stand out as a European or even a world leader: life sciences, agro-industry, mechanical engineering, transport/logistics, and aeronautics and space technology.

In institutional terms, Wallonia is a federated entity with very extensive powers and autonomy, offering investors a remarkable degree of proximity to its political leaders, who are very acutely aware of the importance of creating sustainable businesses and business partners. On top of all this, the people of Wallonia are open and welcoming, living in a region full of history, tradition and fine cuisine where the preserved spaces are testament to a living spirit of real warmth. Come and (re)discover it for yourself!

Best of Belgium



Best of Belgium

Taking a closer look at the best of Belgian achievements Belgian achievements in 2007 and 2008 in a range of different areas — the economy, the arts, industry, fashion, hospitality, specialty foods, science and technology and more — provide examples of best practice from the heart of Europe. Belgium has a vibrant, stable and diversified economy with growth rates consistently above the European average, strong corporate investment and vigorous export performance despite the recent global economic slowdown. In 2007 the country posted GDP growth of 2.8% in comparison to the Euro zone average of 2.6%. Corporate investment increased by 5% and exports rose 3.8% annually to €236 billion. The leading export sector was chemicals while iron and steel exports, machinery, automobiles, diamonds and specialty foods, notably chocolate and beer, performed strongly. Unemployment dropped by 9.5% in 2007 as the economy created 74,000 new jobs, thanks largely to the country’s burgeoning small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Belgium’s top companies continued to set the standard in 2008. Europe’s premier brewer InBev announced that it and U.S. brewery giant AnheuserBusch have agreed to merge, which will form the world’s largest brewer by volume with the world’s leading beer brands such as Budweiser, Stella Artois and Beck’s. Chemicals, plastics and pharmaceuticals leader Solvay posted record company results for the fourth year running while Bekaert, a global leader in steel cord manufacture, expanded its steel investments in China. Belgium’s top construction company has nearly finished building the world’s tallest tower, the Burj Dubai, while Belgian dredging companies are involved in building whole islands in the Middle East. Belgium’s numerous niche companies are applying advanced technology in cooperation with local universities and research institutes. Companies like LMS International, ICOS Vision Systems and EVS have become absolute leaders in their fields. In biotech, the Flanders Institute of Biotechnology is powering ahead— especially in agro biotech, Belgian scientists and companies are world leaders. Brussels, Europe’s capital and the headquarters of all the main EU institutions as well the European base of hundreds of multinational companies, was rated the most productive metropolitan region in Europe with the 2nd highest GDP per capita (behind Luxembourg). This year Brussels also celebrated the 50th anniversary of

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Best of Belgium

the city’s landmark 1958 World Fair which launched Belgium’s capital onto the world stage as a modern, highly successful city and the capital of Europe. The city celebrated in 2008 with yearlong events, exhibitions and festivities which recalled an era of optimism, scientific progress and peace. Antwerp, Europe’s second-largest port and a vital cog in Belgium’s highly integrated transportation infrastructure, grew by an impressive 10% in 2007, processing 182 million tonnes of freight from almost 17,000 cargo ships. The city is also the world’s diamond capital, handling more than 50% of the world’s rough and cut diamonds. The Antwerp diamond sector had an annual turnover of $39 billion in 2007 and diamond sales accounted for 8% of Belgian exports. In Liège, the economic and cultural centre of Wallonia, the new railway station designed by architect Santiago Calatrava, is nearing completion. This monumental piece of modern architecture is made of steel, glass and white concrete and is characterised by a huge flowing vault 200 meters long and 35 meters high. Politically the period 2007 to 2008 has been one of uncertainty at the federal level following the June 2007 elections while Belgium’s three regions — the Brussels Capital Region, Flanders and Wallonia — continue to prosper in an environment of regional stability and autonomy. Current prime-minister Yves Leterme’s government has the difficult task of negotiating constitutional reforms to devolve more powers to Belgium’s regions. In the Arts, acclaimed Belgian visual artist Jan De Cock showcased his work at New York’s Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in 2008 while Luc Tuymans continues his influence as one of the most significant painters working today. A number of Arts festivals in Flanders, Wallonie and Brussels showcased world-class performers in classical and contemporary music, dance and theatre. Belgium’s internationally sought-after dance companies such as Rosas, the Royal Ballet of Flanders and Charleroi / Danses impressed audiences with their quality, originality and creative genius. The International Film Festival Ghent, the Brussels-based Kunstenfestivaldesarts and off course the Queen Elizabeth Competition for Music were notable highlights of the Arts calendar. And

at the international theatre festival in Avignon, Belgian performers were the talk of the town. In Sport, Belgian tennis champion Justine Henin became the first reigning World No 1 to retire from professional tennis while holding the world’s top ranking. In football, Belgium has expressed interest in a joint bid to host the 2018 Fifa World Cup with the Netherlands. Welcome to Belgium!

Una mirada cercana a lo mejor de los éxitos belgas Los éxitos belgas durante 2007 y 2008 en distintos ámbitos – la economía, las artes, la industria, la moda, la hospitalidad, la gastronomía, la ciencia y la tecnología y otras – constituyen ejemplos de buenas prácticas desde el corazón de Europa. Bélgica se caracteriza por una economía vibrante, estable y diversificada con una tasa de crecimiento por encima de la media europea, fuertes inversiones empresariales y unos magníficos resultados de exportación a pesar de la reciente desaceleración económica global. En 2007 el PIB del país experimentó un crecimiento del 2,8% en comparación con la media de 2,6 % de la zona Euro. Las inversiones empresariales crecieron un 5% y las exportaciones aumentaron un 3,8% anual para llegar a 236 mil millones de euros. El sector químico lideró la exportación seguido por los sectores del acero, maquinaria, automóviles, diamantes, alimentación especializada, especialmente el chocolate y la cerveza. El desempleo bajó en 9,5% en 2007 y la economía creó 74.000 nuevos empleos, en buena parte gracias a las florecientes pequeñas y medianas empresas (“PYMES”). Las compañías líderes belgas continúan marcando los estándares en 2008. InBev, el primer fabricante europeo de cervezas ha anunciado su fusión con el gigante americano Anheuser-Busch para formar conjuntamente el mayor fabricante de cervezas a nivel mundial por volumen, con marcas mundialmente conocidos como Budweiser, Stella Artois y Beck’s. Solvay, la empresa líder en los sectores de la química, plásticos y farmacéutica ha conseguido unos resultados empresariales record por cuarto año consecutivo, mientras Bekaert, líder global en la manufacturación de cable de acero, expandió sus inversiones en acero en China. En el sector de la construcción, la empresa líder en la construcción en Bélgica está a punto de finalizar la torre más alta del mundo, el Buró Dubai, mientras compañías belgas de drenaje contribuyen al desarrollo de islas enteras en el Oriente Medio. Numerosas empresas belgas especializadas en nichos de mercado están aplicando tecnología avanzada en cooperación con universidades locales e instituciones de investigación. Empresas como LMS Internacional, ICOS Vision Systems y EVS se han convertido en líderes absolutos en sus campos. En el sector de la biotecnología, el “Flanders Institute of Biotechnology (VIB)” está liderando, especialmente en agro-biotecnología, y científicos y compañías belgas están considerados líderes mundiales. Bruselas, capital de Europa y sede de

las principales instituciones de la UE así como base europea de centenas de compañías multinacionales, encabeza el ranking como la región metropolitana más productiva de Europa y ocupa el segundo puesto por PIB per capita (detrás de Luxemburgo). En 2008, Bruselas también celebra el 50 aniversario de la Exposición Mundial de 1958 que lanzó la capital de Bélgica al escenario mundial como una ciudad moderna, exitosa y capital de Europa. La ciudad celebra esta conmemoración durante todo el año con eventos, exhibiciones y festividades para revivir una era de optimismo, progreso científico y paz. Amberes, el segundo puerto europeo y eje vital en la altamente integrada infraestructura de transportes belga, experimentó en 2007 un crecimiento impresionante del 10%, procesando 182 millones de toneladas de flete de unos 17.000 buques de carga. La ciudad es también la capital mundial de diamantes, donde se negocian más del 50% de los diamantes rudos y tallados a nivel mundial. El sector de diamantes en Amberes obtuvo en 2007 unos resultados anuales de 139 mil millones de USD y la venta de diamantes representaron un 8% de las exportaciones belgas. En Lieja, centro económico y cultural de Valonia, se está finalizando la nueva estación de ferrocarriles diseñado por el arquitecto Santiago Calatrava. Esta pieza monumental de la arquitectura moderna está hecha de acero, vidrio y hormigón blanco y se caracteriza por una enorme bóveda flotante de 200 metros de largo y 35 metros de alto. En el terreno político, el periodo 2007-2008 ha sido de incertidumbre a nivel federal a consecuencia de las elecciones de Junio 2007 mientras que las tres regiones, la región de Bruselas Capital, Flandes y Valonia, continúan prosperando en un entorno de estabilidad regional y de autonomía. El gobierno del primer ministro actual Yves Leterme tiene la ardua labor de negociar la reforma constitucional para dotar de más poderes a las regiones belgas. En las Artes, el aclamado artista visual belga Jan De Cock ha expuesto en 2008 su obra en el “Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)” en Nueva York, mientras Luc Tuymans continúa su influencia como uno de los más significativos pintores actuales. Festivales de Arte en Flandes, Valonia y Bruselas han

exhibido artistas de nivel mundial en música clásica y contemporánea, danza y teatro. Compañías belgas internacionalmente reconocidas como “Rosas”, el “Koninklijk Ballet van Vlaanderen” y “Charleroi Danses” han impresionado la audiencia por su calidad, originalidad y espíritu creativo. En el calendario de Artes, han destacado el festival internacional “Filmfestival Gent”, el “Kunstenfestivaldesarts” de Bruselas y naturalmente el concurso de música “Queen Elizabeth Competition”. Asimismo, en el festival de teatro internacional “Festival d’Avignon”, artistas belgas han sido la comidilla de la ciudad. En Deportes, la campeona belga de tenis profesional Justin Henin ha sido la primera tenista retirándose del tenis profesional mientras ostentaba el número 1 del ranking mundial. En fútbol, Bélgica ha expresado su interés en una oferta conjunta con los Países Bajos para alojar la 2018 Fifa World Cup. ¡Bienvenidos a Bélgica!

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11

‫‪Best of Belgium‬‬

‫ةيكيجلبلا تازجنملا لضفأ ىلإ برق نع ةرظن‬ ‫‪:‬تالاجملا فلتخم يفو ‪ 2008‬و ‪ 2007‬يماع لالخ ةيكيجلبلا تازجنملا تلكش‬ ‫ةيقدنفلا تامدخلاو ‪،‬ةضوملاو ‪،‬ةعانصلاو ‪،‬ةليمجلا نونفلاو ‪،‬داصتقالا‬ ‫تالاجملاو ايجولونكتلاو مولعلاو ‪،‬ةصصختملا تالوكأملا فانصأو ‪،‬ةفايضلاو‬ ‫‪.‬ابوروأ بلق يف ةغبانلا ةعدبملا ةسرامملا ىلع ةديدع ةلثمأ ‪،‬ىرخألا‬ ‫يذلا تقولا يف ‪ 2007،‬هينوي ‪ /‬ناريزح‬ ‫‪:‬ثالثلا ةيكيجلبلا قطانملا هيف تناك‬ ‫نيتقطنملاو ‪،‬ةمصاعلا لسكورب ةقطنم‬ ‫اهراهدزا لصاوت ةينولاولاو ةيكنملفلا‬ ‫يتاذلا مكحلاو رارقتسالا نم ةئيب يف‬ ‫ةسائرب ةيلاحلا ةموكحلا ىدلو ‪.‬يميلقإلا‬ ‫يف نمكت ةبعص ةمهم مريتول فيإ ديسلا‬ ‫ةيروتسدلا تاحالصإلا ىلع ضوافتلا‬ ‫نم اديزم ةيكيجلبلا قطانملا حنمتس يتلا‬ ‫‪.‬تايحالصلا‬ ‫ضرع مت دقف ‪،‬نونفلاب قلعتي اميف امأ‬ ‫ةيويحلاب معفملا يكيجلبلا نانفلا لامعأ‬ ‫نونفلل كرويوين ضرعم يف كوك يد ناي‬ ‫لصاوي نيح يف ‪ 2008،‬ماع )اموم( ةثيدحلا‬ ‫هرابتعاب ةينفلا هلامعأ سناميوت كول‬ ‫ةيحان نمو ‪.‬نيرصاعملا نيماسرلا رهشأ دحأ‬ ‫ةديدعلا ةينفلا تاناجرهملا تزربأ ‪،‬ىرخأ‬ ‫ةيكنملفلا نيتقطنملا يف تميقأ يتلا‬ ‫ةمصاعلا لسكورب ةقطنمو ةينولاولاو‬ ‫ىوتسملا عيفرلا يكيجلبلا ءادألا‬ ‫ةيكيسالكلا ىقيسوملا تالاجم يف‬ ‫‪.‬ةيحرسملا لامعألاو صقرلاو ةرصاعملاو‬ ‫ةيكيجلبلا صقرلا تاعومجم تزاح دقو‬ ‫هيلابلا قرفو سازور لثم ايملاع ةروهشملا‬ ‫ةنيدمو ةيكنملفلا ةقطنملا يف ةيكلملا‬ ‫ةيعونل روهمجلا باجعإ ىلع اورلراش‬ ‫ةقالخلا ةيرقبعلاو هتلاصأو صقرلا‬ ‫كلذ ىلإ فاضيو ‪.‬اهب نوعتمتي يتلا‬ ‫‪،‬ةيئامنيسلا مالفألل يلودلا تنج ناجرهم‬ ‫ماقت يتلا ىرخألا ةينفلا تاناجرهملاو‬ ‫ةقباسم كلذكو ‪،‬لسكورب ةنيدم يف‬ ‫اهلمش يتلا ةيقيسوملا تيبازيلإ ةكلملا‬ ‫يفو ‪.‬نونفلل يكيجلبلا جمانربلا‬ ‫نوينيفأ ةنيدم يف يلودلا حرسملا ناجرهم‬ ‫نينانفلا نع ثيدحلا ناك )اسنرف(‬ ‫‪.‬اعيمج سانلا ةنسلأ ىلع نييكيجلبلا‬ ‫سنتلا ةبعال تحبصأ ‪،‬ةضايرلا لاجم يفو‬ ‫ىلوألا ةبعاللا نانيه نيتسوج ةيكيجلبلا‬ ‫بعللا ةريخألا هذه تلزتعا دقو ‪،‬ملاعلا يف‬ ‫‪.‬نييملاعلا نيبعاللا ةمئاق ردصتت يهو‬ ‫تربع دقف ‪،‬مدقلا ةركب قلعتي اميف امأ‬ ‫ادنلوه عم كارتشالاب اهتبغر نع اكيجلب‬ ‫‪ 2018‬ماعل ملاعلا سأك ةلوطب ةفاضتساب‬ ‫مدقلا ةركل يملاعلا داحتالا اهمظني يتلا‬ ‫‪".‬افيف"‬ ‫‪...‬اكيجلب يف مكب الهسو الهأو‬

‫نيجف سوكيإو ‪،‬لانويشانرتنا سأ مأ لأ‬ ‫تحبصأ يتلا ‪،‬سا يف ياو ‪،‬متسيس‬ ‫دهعملا لمعي امك ‪.‬لاجملا اذه يف ةدئار تاكرش‬ ‫رارمتساب ةيويحلا تاينقتلل يكنملفلا‬ ‫تالامعتسالل ةيويح تاينقت ريوطت ىلع‬ ‫ءاملعلا حبصأ ثيح صاخ لكشب ةيعارزلا‬ ‫اذه يف ةلماعلا تاكرشلاو نويكيجلبلا‬ ‫‪.‬ملاعلا يف ةدئار ةناكمب نوعتمتي لاجملا‬ ‫ةيبوروألا ةمصاعلا ‪،‬لسكورب ربتعتو‬ ‫ةيسيئرلا ةيبوروألا تاسسؤملا رقمو‬ ‫‪،‬تايسنجلا ةددعتملا تاكرشلا نم تائمو‬ ‫ةمصاعلاو ةيجاتنإ ةيبوروألا مصاوعلا رثكأ‬ ‫جتانلا نم درفلا بيصن ثيح نم ةيناثلا‬ ‫‪).‬جروبمسكوللا دعب( يلامجإلا يلحملا‬ ‫ىركذب ماعلا اذه لسكورب ةنيدم تلفتحاو‬ ‫ملاعم رهشأ دحأ ءاشنإ ىلع اماع ‪ 50‬رورم‬ ‫ميقأ يذلا يلودلا ضرعملا رقم وهو ةنيدملا‬ ‫ةيكيجلبلا ةمصاعلل حاتأو ‪ 1958،‬ةنس‬ ‫ةرهدزم ةثيدح ةنيدمك ةيلود ةناكم باستكا‬ ‫لاوط ةنيدملا تلفتحا امك ‪.‬ابوروأل ةمصاعو‬ ‫ةديدع ضراعمو تالافتحاو ثادحأب ‪ 2008‬ماع‬ ‫نم اديدج ارصع شيعت ةنيدم اهنم تلعج‬ ‫‪.‬مالسلاو يملعلا مدقتلاو لؤافتلا‬ ‫ربتعي يذلا بريوتنأ ءانيم لجسو‬ ‫ثدحأب دوزمو ابوروأ يف ءانيم ربكأ يناث‬ ‫غيرفتو ليمحتل ةيساسألا تاينبلا‬ ‫ثيح ‪ 2007‬ماع ةظوحلم ومن ةبسن عئاضبلا‬ ‫عئاضبلا نم نط نويلم ‪ 182‬هردق ام جلاع‬ ‫ةنيفس فلأ ‪ 17‬نمو ىلإ ةغرفملاو ةنوحشملا‬ ‫ايملاع بريوتنأ ةنيدم فرعتو ‪.‬نحش‬ ‫هتبسن ام جلاعت يتلا ساملألا ةمصاعب‬ ‫ثيح ‪،‬لوقصملاو ماخلا ملاعلا سام نم ‪50%‬‬ ‫ماع عاطقلا اذهل يونسلا لامعألا مقر غلب‬ ‫تلكشو ‪.‬رالود رايلم ‪ 39‬هردق ام ‪2007‬‬ ‫هتبسن ام ساملألا نم ةيكيجلبلا تارداصلا‬ ‫‪.‬ةيلامجإلا تارداصلا نم ‪8%‬‬ ‫يداصتقالا زكرملا جييل ةنيدم ربتعتو‬ ‫دقف ‪.‬ةينولاولا ةقطنملل يفاقثلاو‬ ‫ةنيدملا هذهل ةديدجلا راطقلا ةطحم تحبصأ‬ ‫وغايتناس يرامعملا سدنهملا اهممص يتلاو‬ ‫‪.‬اهئانب نم ءاهتنالا كشو ىلع افارتالاك‬ ‫يرامعملا هنف ةثادحب زيمتملا بصنلا اذهف‬ ‫ضيبألا تنمسالاو جاجزلاو نداعملا نم نوكم‬ ‫م ‪ 200‬اهلوط ادج ةريبك ةرطنقم ةبقب دوزمو‬ ‫‪.‬م ‪ 35‬اهعافتراو‬ ‫و ‪ 2007‬يماع دهش ‪،‬ةيسايسلا ةيحانلا نمو‬ ‫ىلع نيقيلا مدعو ةريحلا نم ةرتف ‪2008‬‬ ‫تاباختنا دعب ةصاخو يلارديفلا ديعصلا‬

‫ضبان داصتقاب اكيجلب عتمتتو‬ ‫ومن تالدعمب زيمتي عونتمو رقتسم‬ ‫ةئيببو ‪،‬ةيبوروألا تالدعملا امئاد قوفت‬ ‫طشن يريدصت ءادأو ةبلص ةيرامثتسا‬ ‫يملاعلا داصتقالا عجارت نم مغرلاب‬ ‫غلب ‪ 2007‬ماع يفف ‪.‬ةريخألا ةنوآلا يف‬ ‫‪ 2.8%‬يلامجإلا يلحملا جتانلا ومن لدعم‬ ‫”ورويلا“ ةقطنمل ماعلا لدعملا عم ةنراقملاب‬ ‫ةبسن تدازو ‪ 2.6%.‬ىلإ طقف لصي يذلا‬ ‫يف ‪ 5%‬لدعمب ةكرتشملا تارامثتسالا‬ ‫‪ 3.8%‬ةبسنب تارداصلا تعفترا نيح‬ ‫‪.‬وروي رايلم ‪ 236‬ىلإ اهتميق لصتل‬ ‫ةمدقم يف ةيئايميكلا داوملا يتأتو‬ ‫تاجتنم اهيلت ةيكيجلبلا تارداصلا‬ ‫لقنلا لئاسوو تانكاملاو بلصلاو ديدحلا‬ ‫يفو ةصصختملا ةيئاذغلا داوملاو ساملاو‬ ‫تداز يتلاو ةريبلاو هتالوكوشلا اهتمدقم‬ ‫‪.‬ةظوحلم بسنب اهتارداص‬ ‫‪ 9.5%‬ىلإ اهتبسن تطبه دقف ‪،‬ةلاطبلا امأ‬ ‫يكيجلبلا داصتقالا حاتأ نأ دعب ‪ 2007‬ماع‬ ‫لضفب كلذو ةديدج ةفيظو فلأ ‪ 74‬داجيإ‬ ‫ةطسوتملاو ةريغصلا دلبلا تاسسؤم راهدزا‬ ‫‪.‬مجحلا‬ ‫ةيكيجلبلا تاكرشلا ىربك تلصاوو‬ ‫ثيح ةيسايق اماقرأ قيقحت ‪ 2008‬ماع‬ ‫ربتعت يتلا فيبنأ ةكرش تنلعأ‬ ‫اهنأ ابوروأ يف ةريبلل لوألا عناصلا‬ ‫ةيكيرمألا ةكرشلاب جامدنالا ىلع تقفاو‬ ‫رسواهنأ ةريبلا ةعانص يف ةقالمعلا‬‫ةكرش ربكأ اعم نالكشتس ثيحب شوب‬ ‫لثم ملاعلا يف ةيراجتلا تامالعلل ةلماح‬ ‫تققحو ‪.‬سكبو ‪،‬اوترأ اليتسو ‪،‬رزيودوب‬ ‫داوملا عاطق يف ةلماعلا يافلوس ةكرش‬ ‫ةينالديصلاو ةيكيتسالبلاو ةيئايميكلا‬ ‫ةنسلل ةيلاملا اهجئاتن يف ايسايق امقر‬ ‫تررق نيح يف ‪،‬يلاوتلا ىلع ةعبارلا‬ ‫يف ملاعلا يف ةدئارلا تراكيب ةكرش‬ ‫اهتارامثتسا ةدايز ةيندعملا كالسألا ةعانص‬ ‫ىربك تكشوأ امك ‪.‬نيصلا يف ةيندعملا‬ ‫عاطق يف ةلماعلا ةيكيجلبلا تاكرشلا‬ ‫جرب لوطأ "يبد جرب" زاجنإ ىلع ءانبلا‬ ‫مهاست يذلا تقولا يف كلذو ‪،‬ملاعلا يف‬ ‫ةصصختملا ةيكيجلبلا تاكرشلا هيف‬ ‫ةلماك رزج ءانبب ةيرحبلا لامعألا يف‬ ‫ةراشإلا ردجتو ‪.‬طسوألا قرشلا ةقطنم يف‬ ‫ةيكيجلبلا تاكرشلا نم ةعومجم ىلإ اضيأ‬ ‫قيبطتو ريوطت ىلع لمعت يتلا‬ ‫تاعماجلا عم نواعتلاب ةمدقتم تاينقت‬ ‫تاكرش اهنم ركذنو ‪،‬ةيلحملا ثوحبلا دهاعمو‬

‫‪Best of Belgium‬‬

‫‪12‬‬

近观硕果累累的比利时 有着"欧洲心脏"之称的比利时在2007和2008两年间，在经济， 艺术，工业，服饰，医疗，特色美食，科技等不同领域中都取 得了卓越的成就，起到了名副其实的榜样作用。 稳定，多样及充满活力的比利时经济

Institute of Biotechnology) 独树一帜，

月联邦选举以来，比利时三大区，即

虽然也同样面临着近期全球经济放缓

特别是农业生物科技，比利时的科学

布鲁塞尔首都地区，法兰德斯地区

的困扰，但强劲的企业投资和良好的

家和相关公司都处于世界领先行列。

与瓦隆地区均要求更宽松的地区性

出口额使其经济增长率仍始终处在欧

自治与稳定的环境。现任首相Yves

洲平均水平之上。2007年比利时国

作为欧洲之都的布鲁塞尔，所有欧盟主

LETERME当前面临的首要而艰巨

内生产总值增长2.8%, 超越了整个欧

要机构的总部及众多跨国企业都扎根于

的任务则是通过商议来寻求国家改

元区2.6%的平均值。企业投资增长

此。因此，这座城市也可谓是欧洲最富

革，以便提升比利时各地区力量。

5%，出口额年增长3.8%，达到了两

饶的国际大都市之一，人均国内生产

艺术方面，2008年，深受欢迎的比利

千三百六十亿欧元。其中化工业是所

总值在整个欧洲地区排名第二位，仅

时视觉艺术大师Jan DE COCK在纽约现

有出口行业部门中的佼佼者，除此之

次于卢森堡。今年，布鲁塞尔庆祝了

代艺术博物馆 (New York's Museum of

外，钢铁，机械，汽车，钻石以及比

有着城市地标象征的1958年世界博览

Modern Art) 展示了他的作品。杰出画

利时特色食品，尤其是巧克力和啤酒

会，这一历史事件，将一个现代，高

家Luc TUYMANS也继续着他对当今画

在整个出口业中也发挥了举足轻重的

度成功且拥有欧洲首都的比利时推向

坛的影响力。无数场艺术盛会在法兰

作用。不仅如此，大量新兴中小型企

了世界的舞台。与此同时，这座富有

德斯区，瓦隆区和布鲁塞尔举行，世

业的纷纷涌现，也为社会创造出了七

生机的城市在2008年里也将用一系列

界顶尖艺术家们齐聚比利时，为当地

万四千个工作岗位，从而使2007年

的庆典及展会活动来回顾一个乐观向

民众献上了古典及当代歌舞与戏剧。

的失业率下降了9.5个百分点。　

上，科技迅猛发展与和平的时代。　

具有国际影响力的比利时舞蹈团，如

安特卫普，欧洲第二大港口，在比

Rosas，the Royal Ballet of Flanders and

比利时那些享有声望的公司在2008年

利时高度密集的基础交通设施中扮

Charleroi，用他们那高超精湛且极富创

中也都争相为各自制定着新的标准。

演着不可或缺的重要角色，2007年

造力的演出征服着无数观众。除此以

欧洲首屈一指的啤酒公司InBev宣布

年吞吐量惊人地增长10%，从至少

外，The International Film Festival, the

与美国制酒大亨Anheuser-Busch已达

一万七千艘货轮上共卸下约一亿八

Brussels-based Kunstenfestivaldesarts以

成合并的共识，这将形成世界上最大

千二百万屯货物。不仅如此，这座

及the Queen Elizabeth Competition

的啤酒量与世界领先的啤酒品牌，如

城市还被誉为世界钻石之都，全球

for Music也都为比利时文化艺术

Budweiser, Stella Artois以及Beck's。又

50%的钻石都在这里被打磨切割。

在添墨增彩。而在Avignon举办的

如在化学，塑料，制药领域中的领头

安特卫普的钻石业在2007年中，

国际戏剧节中，比利时演员们则

羊Solvay公司，在第四年的运作中便创

年营业额达三百九十亿美元，钻石

成了该镇居民谈论的焦点。　

下了该领域的纪录。与此同时，全球

销售额占比利时出口额的8%。

知名的钢丝制造公司Bekaert将自己的

体育方面，具有世界最高排名的比

业务拓展到了中国。比利时顶尖的建

烈日，瓦隆区经济及文化的中心。

利时网坛名将Justine HENIN成为了

造公司也即将完成目前世界最高摩天

由建筑师Santiago CALATRAVA设

首个以世界第一身份而宣布退役的

大楼Burj Dubai的建造工作。比利时疏

计的新火车站即将竣工验收。这座

职业运动员。在足球运动方面，比

浚公司参与了中东群岛建设任务。比

雄伟的现代建筑主要由钢材，玻

利时和荷兰则有意共同举办2018年

利时的许多利基公司运用先进的科技

璃以及白色混凝土组成，其吸引

世界杯足球赛 (FIFA World Cup)。

与当地的大学和研究机构合作研发。

眼球之处则在于那座长200米，高

此外，LMS International, ICOS Vision

35米的巨大可移动式拱顶。　　

比利时欢迎您 !

Systems 和EVS公司也都在其各自领域 成为了绝对的领先者。在生物科技界，

政治方面，2007至2008是比利时政

佛兰德斯生物科技研究院 (Flanders

治局势不稳定的两年。自2007年七

Best of Belgium

13

Best of Belgium

Лучшие достижения Бельгии – знакомьтесь! Расположенная в сердце Европы Бельгия подает прекрасный пример успехов, достигнутых в 2007-2008 годах в таких областях, как экономика, искусство, промышленность, мода, туризм, особая пищевая продукция, наука и технология и в других. Несмотря на недавнее глобальное экономическое замедление, экономика в Бельгии оставалась оживленной, устойчивой и разнообразной c показателем роста выше среднеевропейского. Осуществлялись солидные корпоративные инвестиции, были достигнуты высокие показатели в экспорте. В 2007 году в стране зарегистрирован показатель роста национального валового продукта в 2,8%, в то время, как средний показатель в зоне Евро достиг 2,6%. Корпоративные инвестиции выросли на 5% и ежегодный показатель роста экспорта – 3,8%, что достигло 236 миллиардов Евро. Лидирующим сектором в экспорте была химическая промышленность, в то время как экспорт в области черной металлургии и стали, механического оборудования, автомобилестроения, алмазов и особой пищевой продукции, а именно, шоколада и пива, оставался на высоком уровне. В стране в 2007 году снизился уровень безработицы на 9,5%, благодаря созданию 74000 новых рабочих мест в набирающих силу малых и средних предприятиях (МСП), расположенных по всей стране.

компании, как LMS International, ICOS Vision Systems и EVS являются абсолютными лидерами в своих областях. В биотехнологии Flanders Institut of Biotechnology является двигателем в своей области, особенно, в агробиотехнологии. Бельгийские ученые и научные институты вписываются в ранг мировых лидеров.

Бельгийские ведущие компании продолжали нести передовое знамя в 2008 году. Первый в Европе пивоваренный завод InBev объявил о слиянии с американским гигантом пововарения Anheuser-Busch, что приведет к созданию крупейшего в мире пивоваренного завода по объему производства всемирно лидирующих сортов пива, как Budweiser, Stella Artois и Beck’s. Solvay, передовая компания в области химических, пластических материалов и фармакологии, в течение последних четырех лет достигала наилучших результатов. Bekaert, лидер в производстве металлокордов, расширил свои металлоинвестиции в Китае. Крупнейшая бельгийская строительная компания заканчивает строительство самой высокой в мире башни Burj Dubai. Бельгийские компании по драгированию сотрудничали в строительстве целых островов на Ближнем Востоке. Многочисленные бельгийские специализированные предприятия применяют новейшую технологию, работая совместно с местными университетами и исследовательскими центрами. Такие

Антверпен - второй по величине порт Европы, и жизненноважный стержень в высокоинтегрированной бельгийской транспортной инфраструктуре - продемонстрировал впечатляющий рост в 10% в 2007 году. Через порт было отгружено 182 миллиона тонн груза c 17000 грузовых суден. Этот город является также мировой столицей алмазов, через который проходит более 50% мирового оборота необработанных и отшлифованных алмазов. Алмазная промышленность в Антверпене достигла в 2007 году товарооборота в 39 миллиардов долларов и торговля алмазами составляет 8% от бельгийского экспорта.

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Best of Belgium

Брюссель, европейская столица и центр всех главных учреждений ЕС, а также европейская база для сотен мультинациональных компаний, вошёл в категорию наиболее продуктивных столичных регионов в Европе. Он занимает второе место по производству НВП на душу населения (после Люксембурга). В этом году Брюссель отмечает 50летие Всемирной выставки 1958 года, которая выдвинула бельгийскую столицу на мировую арену, как современный, преуспевающий город и как столицу Европы. В течение всего 2008-го года это событие отмечается мероприятиями, выставками, фестивалями, которые проходят под лозунгом оптимизма, научного прогресса и мира.

В Льеже – экономическом и культурном центре Валонии – практически закончено строительство нового железнодорожного вокзала, созданного по проекту архитектора Сантьяго Калатрава. Это монументальное сооружение современной архитектуры, созданное из металла, стекла и белого бетона, имеет округленный свод длиной в 200 метров и восотой в 35 метров.

В плане политики на федеральном уровне период 2007-2008 годов был неопределенным, вследствие июньских выборов 2007 года, в то время как три бельгийских региона – Брюссельский столичный регион, Фландрия и Валония, имея каждый свой автономный статус, продолжали стабильно развиваться. Перед действующим правительством во главе с премьер-министром Ивом Летермом стоит трудная задача по проведению переговоров по конституционной реформе, в целях передачи более расширенных полномочий бельгийским регионам. В области искусства известный бельгийский визуальный артист Жан Де Кок в 2008 году представил свое произведение в ньюйоркском Музее современного искусства (МоМА). Имя Люка Тюиманса продолжает оставаться в ряду самых значительных художников сегодняшнего дня. Многочисленные фестивали искусств, проходящие во Фландрии, Валонии и Брюсселе, представляют мирового класса исполнителей классической и современной музыки, балета и театра. Всемирно известные бельгийские балетные труппы, как Rosas, Royal Ballet of Flanders и Charleroi/Danses покаряют зрителей своим высоким мастерством, оригинальностью и гениальной творческой композицией. На первых страницах артистических календарей стоят Международный кинофестиваль в Генте, Фестиваль искусств в Брюсселе и, конечно, Международный музыкальный конкурс королевы Елизаветы. Бельгийские актеры заставили говорить о себе на международном театральном фестивале в Авиньоне. В спорте бельгийская чемпионка по теннису Жюстин Энен, которая покинула профессиональный теннис, царила в мире под № 1. В футболе Бельгия проявила интерес присоединиться к предложению принять вместе с Нидерландами в 2018 году Всемирный чемпионат на кубок Фифа. Добро пожаловать в Бельгию!

ベルギーの代表的な功績についての詳細 ベルギーの２００７年と２００８年の各方面における成果 — 経済、芸術、 産業、ファッション、ホスピタリティ、高級食品、科学とテクノロジーなど — ヨーロッパの中心から成功事例をご紹介いたします。

ベルギーは、近年の世界的な景気後 退にもかかわらず、経済成長率は常 にヨーロッパの平均以上、強力な企 業投資と輸出実績による活気ある、 安定した経済を誇ります。 ２００７年度のＧＤＰ成長率はユー ロ圏の平均が２．６％であったのに 対して２．８％でした。企業投資は ５％の成長で輸出金額も年３．８％ 成長し、２３６０億ユーロに達して います。主な輸出産業は化学薬品で すが、鉄鋼、機械、自動車、ダイヤ モンド、食品、特にチョコレートや ビールが際立っています。国内の中 小企業の急成長のおかげで、新規雇 用が７万４千件あり、２００７年度 の失業率は９．５％に減少しまし た。 ベルギーのトップ企業は２００８年 も高水準を記録しています。ヨーロ ッパの大手ビール会社インベブは、 同社がアメリカの大手アンハイザー ・ブッシュ買収に合意したと発表 し、バドワイザー、ステラ・アルト ワ、ベックスなど世界的なブランド を有する世界最大手のビール会社に なります。 化学薬品、プラスティック、製薬の 大手ソルベイは４年連続で黒字を記 録し、世界最大のスチールワイヤー メーカーであるベカルトは、中国で 鋼鉄の投資事業を拡大しました。 ベルギーの大手建設会社は、世界一 の超高層ブルジュ・ドバイの建設を ほぼ完了し、ベルギーの浚渫企業は 中東の島々の建設に関わっていま す。 数多くあるニッチ企業は、地元の大 学や研究所と協力して先端技術を応 用しています。ＬＭＳインターナシ ョナル、ＩＣＯＳビジョンシステム ズ、ＥＶＳはそれぞれの分野におけ

る絶対的なリーダーとなりました。 バイオテクノロジーでは、フランダ ースバイオテクノロジー機関が特に 農業生物学で一歩先を進んでいます し、ベルギーの科学者および企業は 世界の先端をいっています。 主なＥＵ機関や多国籍企業がヨーロ ッパ拠点を置くブリュッセルは、ヨ ーロッパの首都であり、ルクセンブ ルグに次ぐ欧州第２位の一人当たり ＧＤＰを誇る生産性の高い都市で す。今年は、ブリュッセルがモダン で成功しているヨーロッパの首都で あることを世界に知らしめた１９５ ８年ブリュッセル万博の５０周年を 祝いました。２００８年は、楽観主 義、科学の成長、平和を回想する展 示会や祭りが年間を通して開催され ました。 アントワープはヨーロッパ第２位の 港とベルギーの高度に統合されたイ ンフラの重要な歯車の歯で、２００ ７年には１０％の目覚しい成長を達 成し、１万７千隻の貨物船から１８ ２百万トンの貨物を取り扱っていま す。また、同市は世界におけるダイ ヤモンド産業都市でもあり、世界の ラフおよびカットダイヤの５０％以 上を扱っています。アントワープの ダイヤモンド産業は２００７年３９ ０億ドルの年間取引高があり、ダイ ヤモンドの売上高はベルギーの輸出 総額の８％にもなります。 リエージュはワロンの経済と文化の 中心で、建築家サンチャゴ・カラト ラバがデザインした新しい鉄道の駅 が間もなく完成します。この鉄とガ ラスと白いコンクリートでできたモ ダンな大建築は、長さ２００メート ル、高さ３５メートルの巨大な浮か ぶアーチ型天井が特徴です。 政治では２００７年６月の選挙後、 ２００７年から２００８年は政治的 に連邦レベルで不安定な時期でし

た。ベルギーの３つの地域―ブリュ ッセル首都圏地域、フランダース、 ワロン―は、それぞれが地域的安定 と自治的環境のもと繁栄していま す。現首相イヴ・ルテルム政権はベ ルギーの各地域へより強力な権限を 与える制度の改革という難題に直面 しています。 芸術では、高く評価されているベル ギーの視覚芸術家、ヤン・デ・コッ クが２００８年ニューヨーク近代美 術館（ＭｏＭＡ）で作品を披露しま した。リュック・タイマンスは現代 絵画の最も優れた画家の１人として 影響を与え続けています。フラン ダース、ワロン、ブリュッセルの芸 術祭では、クラシックと現代音楽、 ダンスや演劇で世界的なパフォーマ ーが活躍しました。ローザス、フラ ンダース王立バレエ団等、ベルギー の世界的に人気のあるダンス・カン パニー、シャルルロワ・ダンスなど は、ダンスの質と独自性、創造的な 才能で観客を魅了しました。ゲント 国際映画祭、ブリュッセルのクンス テン・フェスティバル・デサール、 エリザベート王妃国際音楽祭は、芸 術祭のハイライトです。アヴィニヨ ンの国際芸術映画祭ではベルギーの 役者が注目を集めました。 スポーツでは、ベルギーのテニスチ ャンピオン、世界ランク第１位のジ ャスティン・エナンがプロ引退を表 明しました。また、サッカーにおい て、ベルギーは２０１８年FIFAワー ルドカップのオランダとの共催に立 候補しました。 ようこそベルギーへ！

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© Kies van de brussel fotos

Best of Belgium

Fast Facts Belgium

Capital city Brussels Area 30,528 sq km Government Federal constitutional monarchy and bicameral parliamentary democracy

© Kies van de brussel fotos

Population 10,5 million

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Time Zone CET (Central European Time) Current GDP growth 1,9% (est. 01/2008)

Best of Belgium

© Kies van de brussel fotos

Exchange Rate One US$ = € 1.58 (July 17th 2008) Country Dialing Code +32 Internet domain .be

Inflation 3,64% (est. 02/2008) Official languages Dutch (approx. 60% of the population) French (approx. 40% of the population) German ( 70% for export). Stûv has always endeavoured to produce high-performance stoves. Today all models officially conform to European standards. They have been tested in laboratories which use the European standards EN 13229 (inserts) or EN 13240 (stoves). Company philosophy One can only reach such levels by developing competences in all areas : technical,

administrative, financial, human resource, management, marketing... but there are two areas that characterize this company : the design of its products and a permanent attention to human problems. The design of Stûv stoves has nothing much in common with the current and somewhat flashy “trendy” designs one sees in magazines ; it is timeless, sober, and – beyond its visual aspect – it is deeply respectful of the users, their household environment, of the Environment itself, of those people who build them and install them. Distinctions • Entreprise de l’Année 2006 (Company of the year 2006 in Wallonia) • Great Prize “Wallonia Export 2006”, “young exporters” category • Design Prize, Batimat 2003 • Concours Lépine, the President’s Prize, Paris show 2001

Concept & Forme sa rue Jules Borbouse 4 5170 Bois-de-Villers Belgium E-mail: info @ stuv.be www.stuv.be

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Economy and Industry

Brussels: A Rich, Vibrant and International City

© Christophe Ketels / Compagnie Gagarine

Brussels is one of the world’s great cosmopolitan centres and is the ultimate European city.

The home of the European Union, NATO and other international organisations, Europe’s de facto capital has a reputation for bureaucracy and political decisionmaking but there is far more to Brussels than this. It is a city of banking and business, stylish architecture, vibrant culture and exceptional beer and chocolate. Brussels is also dynamic and successful. In a recent study by BAK Basel Economics comparing the Brussels Metropolitan Region (BMR) to 14 other major European metropolitan centres (such as Paris, London,

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Luxembourg, Madrid and Dublin), Brussels emerged with the highest level of productivity and one of the highest GDPs. The backbone of this successful economy is its services sector, which accounts for around 88% of jobs in the region. Services include banking, research, information technologies, tourism, transport and health. The star performer in this area is the financial sector, where Brussels has an established banking tradition, a respected stock exchange and a variety of insurance, leasing and investment fund firms including major financial

services groups Fortis and KBC. Brussels is regarded as the fourth-most attractive city in Europe for starting a business. Brusselsbased journalist Leo Cendrowicz explains that the city “has many hidden advantages, such as a strategic geographical location in Europe, some of the most productive workers in the world, excellent transport connections with other cities and a plentiful supply of relatively cheap office space”. A key growing sector in Brussels’ economy is information and computer technology, with around 4,500 ICT companies employing

© Christophe Ketels / Compagnie Gagarine

© Christophe Ketels / Compagnie Gagarine

© Christophe Ketels / Compagnie Gagarine

75,000 people. Health is another vehicle for growth and employment, while excellent university research has contributed to the city’s leading role in developing life sciences, including biotechnology and pharmaceuticals. With the decline of traditional industrial activities in the region, it is the international character of Brussels which has assumed vital economic importance. The city is the second-largest diplomatic city in the world and is host to 159 embassies and some 2,500 diplomats as well a vast contingent of EU officials, civil servants, interpreters,

lobbyists, consultancies, advertising agencies and journalists. Many Belgian companies have their headquarters in Brussels even if business activities are centred elsewhere. The capital is home to 54,000 businesses, of which 2,000 are foreign, and the city attracts over 1,000 business conferences annually. From a quality-of-life point of view, the city boasts numerous attractions for young and old alike, a vibrant cultural life and a wealth of quality restaurants. Tourist landmarks include: the Grand Place, the majestic town square which is home to terrace cafes and functions as the venue for numerous concerts; the Atomium, a giant model of nine linked spheres which represents an iron molecule’s atoms and which serves as a symbol of the city; the impressive EU headquarters; the Royal Palace; the neoclassical Palace of Justice, and the town’s gothic town hall. Museums and galleries honour artistic talents Peter Brueghel, Tintin creator Hergé, surrealist painter Magritte and Art Nouveau’s Victor Horta. The city also has its own style district around the rue Dansaert with numerous boutiques, trendy restaurants and art galleries. There are countless restaurants offering fine food, from the national dish of “moules et frites” (mussels and chips) to ethnic dishes from Turkey, China, Morocco, Vietnam, Tunisia, Italy and elsewhere. Belgium’s most famous food export, chocolate, is well

catered for with houses like Godiva, Pierre Marcolini, Wittamer, Leonidas and Neuhaus represented. Brussels also has numerous taverns to sample the country’s 450 worldrenowned beers, which include delicious local specialities such as Trappist beer and the yeast-free ‘lambic beer’. All of these attractions contribute towards Brussels’ success, as does its international character as a cultural meeting-place. This multi-culturalism is not without its challenges, however. In some respects Brussels reflects the broader historical, political and linguistic divisions of Belgium itself, and greater cooperation with the Flemish and Walloonian authorities would increase the city’s standing as a world-class cosmopolitan city. Economically, while the Brussels region is a rich and successful one, levels of unemployment are high (above 20%), especially amongst the growing sector of less-educated immigrants from Turkey, Greece and North Africa. Companies and international experts recommend better education and retraining of the unemployed, both in technical and language skills, to improve the situation. Given its long history dating back to the 13th century of making the most of changing circumstances, Brussels will continue to meet these new opportunities and remain one of Europe’s most dynamic and desirable cities.

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Economy and Industry

Brussels Emmanuel Van Innis, Chairman Brussels Enterprises Commerce and Industry (BECI)

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Brussels: a metropolis on a human scale. Brussels has become the beating heart of Europe, where expats, tourists, business people, civil servants, commuters and residents from all corners of the world meet each other and live together. Brussels is since a number of years again fully in motion. The city attracts people and businesses; it is the largest student city of the country, a dynamic and provocative global meeting place: it is the place where it happens. Besides, Brussels has much to offer. It lies at the crossroads of Belgium and Europe, with a multicultural composition which doesn’t bear comparison: approximately half of the population has no Belgian roots. No other city in Europe houses so many different European immigrants. That interaction and cooperation between people with a different background, who work for the many multinationals, the European decision making, the local commerce or an international organisation, provide an added value and a wealth which has moved Brussels into the top three of Europe’s wealthiest regions. Brussels alone is responsible for 20% of the Belgian GNP, employs 700,000 people, of whom more than half are from Flanders and Walloon. It has furthermore succeeded to retain its human face and a quality of life that belongs to the top regions in Europe. The European parliament, the European Commission, the Council of Ministers of the EU, NATO, the Benelux and some 1400 international organisations make it the capital of Europe. 3,800 diplomats, 13,000 lobbyists, 1,000 international journalists, 4.5 million tourists per year make it the gateway of Belgium to the world and bring the world to Belgium. There are only a few other places in the world where so many international meetings are held. When the Magritte museum and the Congressenpaleis (Convention Centre) are opened next year, the international influx will only increase. But this city is more than a centre for international headquarters or political power: with a highly educated work force, the highest productivity in Europe and excellent accessibility, it also succeeded in developing a new economy and in becoming an important business and financial centre. The region of Brussels is the signboard and the economical motor of the country and its proximity to large economic centres (London, Paris, Amsterdam and Cologne are situated within 250km and the HST train brings all these very close together, within less than 2.5h of travelling time) makes it interesting for both multinationals and tourists. The ICT sector and business services have known

such dynamics in few other cities in Europe as in the Belgian capital. Brussels is a cluster of people, talent and activity and is a source of creativity and innovation. The challenges which belong to such an internationally tinted economy are substantial. Brussels will, in order to be able continuing to practice and strengthen its role as international centre and capital of Europe, have to invest in infrastructure, mobility, urbanism and city marketing. Another challenge which Brussels, just like many other cities will have to face, is the green economy: the city wants to take the lead to tackle the mobility problems, improve the energy performance of its businesses and housing stock and bring into practise the CO2 guide lines of Kyoto and Europe. Brussels could be a perfect test environment for a green economy and measurements, which regulate the quality of life for the city and strengthen the natural environment and can stabilize its attraction to businesses, knowledge and talent. The different union organisations of Belgium; the Flemish VOKA (Flemish Economic Association), the Walloon UWE (Union of Wallonian Enterprises), the Brussels BECI (Brussels Enterprises Commerce and Industry) and the federal VBO (Federation of Enterprises in Belgium) have joined hands to think together about the economic future of the region of Brussels and its hinterland. They work on a route plan for the whole metropolis, including the periphery that outlines which sectors should be expanded and/or supported. In that cooperation between the different communities hides not only the reason of existence, but also the strength of Brussels. Emmanuel Van Innis Chairman Brussels Enterprises Commerce and Industry (BECI)

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Antwerp - Expanding Logistics Hub   Antwerp is strengthening its position as one of the world’s key logistics hubs through expanding its port, road and rail networks.

Major infrastructure projects already underway or in the pipeline include a bridge and tunnel road link which will complete the circle of the Antwerp ring, further deepening of the river Scheldt, an expansion of the harbour, and a railway link between Antwerp and Brussels airport. Strategically located in the heart of Europe, Antwerp has long had a strong tradition in logistics thanks to its inland location which gives it excellent rail, water and road connections to Europe’s leading economies: the Netherlands, France, Germany, Luxembourg and also the United Kingdom.

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In 2007 Antwerp, which is Europe’s second largest port, handled 183 million tonnes of freight from almost 17,000 cargo-carrying ships, increasing its annual handling volume by 9.3%. The main driver of this growth is general cargo with a sharp rise in container cargo in 2007 to nearly 95 million tonnes. This growth is set to continue with further deepening of the Westerschelde scheduled to be complete by 2009. Deepening work, which is necessary to guarantee navigability and keep up with developments in ship construction, got underway in December 2007. Big container ships (up until 12,000

TEU) will soon be able to navigate unhindered right to the Deurganck dock. Work on widening the navigation channel by up to 370 metres between the Europaterminal and up to 500 metres upstream of the Deurganck dock is set to commence following the implementation of environmental protection measures from October 2008. There is strong political commitment to this project from the Flemish government, with Flemish Minister-President Kris Peeters stressing that “widening the navigation channel in the Westerschelde is of great

the structure, which will have a spacesaving double-deck construction. The aim of the Oosterweel link is to take heavy goods vehicles through a tunnel under the Scheldt and across the city on a viaduct to join the Ring close to the Sportpaleis. The project has faced strong opposition, however, from Antwerp residents and political groups such as Groen! who are concerned about the environmental impact, the route of the Link and the choice of a tunnel-viaduct combination. The authority responsible for the development, the Mobile Antwerp Management Company (BAM) has also had to revise its cost projections, pushing up the price to €2.54 billion from the €1.85 billion ceiling set in 2007. The completion date for the project will also be shifted, with optimistic calculations suggesting that work can begin in autumn 2009.

importance for the economic development in Flanders and the Netherlands”. Peeters added that the “expected profits from transport as a result of this third deepening of the Westerschelde up to 2030 are estimated at between €0.7 and €1.1 billion for Flanders alone”. The cost of the dredging work is €100 million. Improving road mobility The fast expansion of Antwerp’s port is also leading to faster than expected growth in road haulage. Antwerp’s already congested road network is becoming even busier as

more and multinationals choose Belgium as their European distribution centre on the grounds of its exceptional location, road network and logistics know-how. To ease this congestion and allow for smooth expansion, Antwerp is planning a bridge and tunnel link (known as the Oosterweel link) to complete the circle of the Antwerp ring. Dubbed the Lange Wapper after a figure in Antwerp’s folklore, the 2.4 km state-of-the-art cable-stayed bridge will be an impressive feat of engineering and serve as an eye-catching icon to the city. Five 110-metre pillars will support

Rail link In terms of rail infrastructure, Belgium has one of the most comprehensive rail networks in the world and transported a total of 188 million passengers and 62 million tonnes of freight in 2006. Regional improvements are set to benefit Antwerp as well with the Diabolo project currently underway resulting in Brussels airport becoming a major junction in the Belgian and international railway network. By providing a new direct rail link between Brussels airport and major railway stations such as Mechelen and Antwerp, the project will significantly reduce travel times on existing services. Antwerp also provides excellent access to Belgium’s extensive network of inland waterways (1,532 km) which provides fast, environmentally-friendly and cost-efficient transport to the heart of Europe. Whatever the outcome of the wrangling over Antwerp’s road infrastructure development, the city’s expansion as a multimodal logistics hub is strengthening its global competitiveness.

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Economy and Industry

Having a Vision Offers a Great Head Start

© Christophe Ketels / Compagnie Gagarine

Robert Voorhamme, Councilor for Education, Work & Economy - City of Antwerp

© Christophe Ketels / Compagnie Gagarine

Situated between Amsterdam, Lille and the Ruhr, Antwerp is a modestly populated region with 466,000 inhabitants. It is the economical centre of the Flanders region. This is mainly due to Antwerp’s unique location and its harbour. The Antwerp harbour processes more than 180 million tons on a yearly basis, and is the fourth busiest harbour in the world. An important part of the harbour’s business comes from the chemical and petrochemical shipments it handles. Most large companies in this industry will not settle for anything less than the best facilities in the world, and Antwerp is proud to be able to offer this. While industry represents twenty percent of Antwerp’s enterprises, the service sector is by far the most important part of the

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economy, representing seventy-five percent of all activities. The government plays a key role in this matter, working proactively in order to boost the economy, making sure all policies are environmentally friendly, and ensuring that the companies involved are included in any relevant debates. Antwerp is the world’s diamond and fashion centre, and the city has become famous for these two creative and high profile industries. Antwerp also offers a wide variety of theatres, museums, cafes and restaurants and has become renowned as the shopping city of Belgium, with the Antwerp Meir being the most popular shopping centre in the country. Antwerp is also a university city. It is home to a management school as well as a number of international schools.

The city has invested a lot of money and effort into improving its infrastructure and accessibility to visitors. Antwerp has its own TGV station and a planned direct connection with the airport of Zaventem will soon make the city even more reachable to international travellers. Antwerp has effective policies in place to attract future orientated investors. The city council has founded an agency whose goal is to attract new industry, retailers and companies to set up their regional headquarters in this city. On a yearly basis more than 350 international companies look for a new office location in Europe, so there is a lot of potential for growth in this sector. When it comes to attracting new investments, the government has to

provide consistent policies, and the policies as well as the people who implement them must have a vision for the future, and uphold the highest standards. Antwerp is a world leader in the protection of the environment. The city’s environmental regulations are among the most stringent in the world, but these regulations are respected and upheld. We believe that companies who have to comply with stricter regulations in this regard will end up being twice as competitive in the international market. Robert Voorhamme Councilor of Education, Work, Economy and Middle Class Stad Antwerpen City of Antwerp

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Sustainable Logistics Alex Van Breedam, Director - Flanders Institute for Logistics

Logistics has secured a place as a strategic sector for Benelux. The added value of logistics is over 8% of the gross domestic product, and it employs over 8% of the working population. These figures alone show that logistics is more than just transport and warehouses. Furthermore, logistics today can only flourish

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sustainably if the connection with industrial activities is strong enough. This means that the boundary between logistics and production is becoming less defined. This can be seen in the changing design of larger warehouses. For example the pure storage space is increasingly making way for added value activities with an increasingly industrial

character, such as assembly, adding options or kitting. These types of activities are labour intensive, providing work for more than 30,000 people in more than 790 European distribution centres (EDCs) supplying at least five European countries. Aside from the obvious benefits of logistics for the economy, the social and ecological

costs cannot be denied. Scarcity of land, increasing traffic congestion in the region and increased emissions of harmful gasses are a few examples of this. This means that a new challenge presents itself: sustainable logistics. Sustainability is generally defined as meeting present needs without mortgaging the needs of future generations.

Until now, companies had the goal of optimising their supply chains to be more efficient and more effective, without very much consideration of sustainability. Maximum efficiency in this is usually expressed in a minimal total logistical cost, or total supply chain cost. Effectiveness generally refers to the service level that is offered to the client, often expressed in terms of delivery frequency, delivery quantities, delivery times, etc. Performant supply chain management makes it possible to improve efficiency and effectiveness together, to a certain level. Beyond that level the company has to choose for efficiency or effectiveness, depending on its strategy. More and more companies are starting to demand sustainable logistics. This means that the existing trade-off between effectiveness and efficiency must now be expanded to include sustainability as well. The result is that the space to optimize the three criteria at once becomes very tight. It is hard to imagine that a company can minimise its supply chain costs by making all its transport comodal, and simultaneously making more frequent deliveries in smaller quantities. Yet the opportunities are there: collaboration, consolidation, in other words bundling streams is the key word. Companies that are prepared to bundle their streams horizontally will succeed in improving all three of their supply chain demands at once. To be able to offer the logistics sector as many opportunities as possible to develop towards sustainability without significantly increasing social impacts, the Flemish Logistics Institute has developed the “Extended Gateway® Flanders” concept. First of all, the Extended Gateway® Flanders concept responds to a trend that has already been apparent for some time. Sea and air ports are taking initiatives in the area they serve to increase their competitiveness. Hence the term Extended Gateway® Flanders. The goal is also to place the (industrial) logistical activities in the correct location, which is the place where the minimal total logistical cost generates the least social impact. Originally conceived as being more a question of business economics, themes such as the environment, quality of life, mobility, regional planning and work activity are increasingly being linked to logistical development. By clustering logistical activity in carefully chosen regions, the flow of goods can be bundled and multimodality can be expanded sustainably. With the Extended Gateway® Flanders Flanders concept, gateways and hinterland find each other. The concept also offers enormous development opportunities both for the gateways as well as for the Flemish and, with expansion, European hinterland. In this way, hinterland locations are

expanded in terms of job opportunities and consolidated delivery of goods flows, while the gateway increases its attractiveness for these flows of goods by establishing them more deeply. Moreover, the gateway is able to reserve maximum space for those industrial and logistic activities that are more port related, such as basic chemical activities or processing large volumes. The ultimate goal of the Extended Gateway® Flanders is to lead the right investment in the right location through a structured, integrated approach. The concept that was originally concerned with business economics and logistics is gradually becoming a broad social project that concerns regional planning, mobility, a healthy labour market, environmental aspects and the optimal expansion and use of the infrastructure. Not all activities need to be concentrated in the gateways. According to the total logistical cost ratio, this is actually not recommended. If the hinterland is selected, then clustering is recommended: logistical and industrial activities are bundled to be able to achieve optimal economies of scale. The focus is primarily on (a limited number of) favourable hotspots, regions that are particularly well suited to logistics. The cluster effects can then be further developed concretely to the level of business operations. In short, companies must be encouraged to bundle streams. At present the Extended Gateway® Flanders is being given a concrete form and is being increasingly used as a leading instrument for the further development of sustainable logistics in Flanders. In this way Flanders will be able to further develop itself into a logistical port for Europe with maximum benefits and minimal costs. In this process, sustainability is not a cost, but an opportunity to get all parties onto the same wavelength and focus on one concept. The government creates the framework - the Extended Gateway® Flanders - in which the logistical players have every opportunity to reach high goals in the areas of cost efficiency, customer service and sustainability. In this way Flanders can maintain and expand its position as a top logistical region.

Vlaams Instituut voor de Logistiek (VIL) Flanders Institute for Logistics Jordaenskaai 25 B-2000 Antwerpen (Belgium) Tel: +32 (0) 3 229 05 00 Fax: +32 (0) 3 229 05 10 E-mail: [email protected] www.vil.be

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Economy and Industry

Gosselin takes International Moving and Logistics to another Level Whether you’re relocating from rural China to the outback of Chile or just across the city, the Gosselin Group ensures a completely thorough and professional moving experience.

Gosselin, an Antwerp-based moving and logistics group of companies with more than 75 years of professional expertise, has taken the business of moving and logistics to another level. Started in 1930 as a local Belgian moving company, the firm has evolved over the years into an impressive international moving empire with 48 branches in 32 countries.

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The company’s core activities cover every aspect of the removal business: moving, linehaul, warehousing, packing and unpacking of containers, customs clearance, and road, sea and air transportation. These activities are divided according to the three divisions: Gosselin Moving, Gosselin Logistics, and Gosselin Support Services. The two driving forces behind Gosselin’s

international success have been former company chairman Dolf Gosselin and the current CEO, Marc Smet. Dolf Gosselin was a “real Antwerpenaar”, a “mover and shaker” who expanded Vivet-Gosselin from a local moving company into Gosselin World Wide Moving, a major player in the international moving scene. They oversaw its steady expansion within Western, Central

and Eastern Europe, the Caucasus as well as mainland Asia, and actively sought the acquisition of smaller regional firms. Gosselin is also perfectly placed to serve the diplomats who are posted to Belgium, the EU and NATO as well as the executives of national and international companies. These VIP contracts have resulted in the company acquiring a wealth of international experience which is constantly being added to and refined. The international character of the organisation means that the different country offices learn from each other through exchanging professional expertise and local knowledge. Over the years Gosselin has evolved beyond recognition, adding invaluable sidelines to its overall package of services. More than just a moving and logistics company, Gosselin positions itself as a partner in moving and logistics. Gosselin is able to take care of all elements of moving to the most challenging destinations from outer Mongolia to central Africa and rural Chile. They are extremely thorough and careful in their approach and each move requires a meticulous master moving plan. Multi-modal logistics Gosselin’s multi-modal logistics encompasses road, air and water transportation. In addition to its hundreds of road vehicles, the Group has its own air cargo company at BruCargo (Brussels airport cargo park) while on the

water front their inland container terminal at the Albert Canal in Antwerp handles 70,000 TEU’s (twenty foot equivalent units) a year. This shift from road to water transportation won Gosselin an industry award for contributing to the growth of inland water freight, as well as the praise of the EU Commission, for its contribution to the environment. The company has its own in-house customs clearance office which speeds up the administrative side of the process. Another critical factor in moving and logistics is warehousing. Gosselin operates an impressive 60.000 square metres of warehouse space (and takes ownership of another 13,000m2 in September 2008). From a quality control point of view, the company proudly boasts the distinction of being the first Belgian moving business to achieve the international moving industry’s most prestigious accreditation, FAIM / ISO. As part of this quality assurance, Gosselin operates an internet tracking system that provides 24 hour visibility within a secure environment. Personal touch Offering a comprehensive service to customers is integral to staff training. The corporate philosophy at Gosselin is based on

expertise, commitment to excellent service and team spirit. As big as Gosselin has become, the Gosselin Group management team is committed to retaining the personal touch. Moving is not a mass expedition, it is an emotional experience and respect for the treasured possessions of families who are relocating is the key to Gosselin’s business. The logistics of people’s emotions here are as important as the moving of their family furniture. One of the most important ingredients of Gosselin’s ongoing success is the trust they have built up with their customers. Given the sensitive nature of the goods, it is this trust within the world of multinationals and diplomats which gives them their competitive edge.

Gosselin Group YOUR PREFERRED PARTNER IN MOVING & LOGISTCIS Belcrownlaan 23 2100 Antwerp - Belgium Tel: +32 / 3 360 55 00 Fax : +32 / 3 360 55 79 [email protected] www.gosselingroup.eu

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The Westerlund Group Westerlund’s worldwide paper chain offers a complete solution

The Westerlund Group is a world leader in the handling and logistics of paper, pulp and other forest products and provides a complete distribution service for producers and consumers through its port terminals in Antwerp, Rouen and Changshu. When Captain John Westerlund, a ship owner from Gothenburg in Sweden, settled in Antwerp in 1903, he set up a business

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supplying ship’s provisions. Over 100 years later, the Westerlund Group has a strong tradition in forwarding and warehousing paper, pulp and forest products and is continuing its global expansion through strategic acquisitions and buyouts. In 2008 the Westerlund Group handled over nine million tons through its regional operations in Belgium, France, the United

Kingdom and China, and the group also owns and operates the world’s largest terminal specialising in forest products. Westerlund’s steady expansion and then specialisation in forest products received a massive boost in 1968 when the founder’s sons built one of the first large modern terminals in Antwerp to specialise in pulp, paper and forest products. 1987 marked the

Port Autonome de Rouen © P. Boulen

dust-free) bulk kaolin receiving terminal on Antwerp’s right bank. A key aspect of Westerlund’s success has been the growth of its regional operations. In Europe, Westerlund France started operating a marine terminal at Rouen in 1993 and also runs a container freight station at Marseilles/ Fos. Westerlund UK started running its business from Tilbury in 1995. In France, Westerlund recently strengthened its position as a market leader through the acquisition of Cimep-Mondia Forest Products. This buyout increased its French activities by 50% and enlarged its storage capacity in Rouen to 85,000m2. In Asia, Westerlund commenced business in 1996 with the building of terminals in the new Chinese port of Changshu, west of Shanghai on the Yangtze River. Westerlund Changshu nearly doubled its handling volumes from one million tonnes in 2004 to almost two million tonnes in 2007. A newly opened office in Shanghai coordinates the group’s Asian logistics.

start of a period of significant growth as the company opened the very first terminal on the left bank of the river Scheldt. Doubling its capacity four years later, Westerlund’s Antwerp terminal became the largest in the world specialising in the handling of paper and pulp. It covers an area of 880,000m2 with 260,000m2 of covered storage. In addition the group operates Europe’s largest (and

Full logistical services Westerlund’s activities have developed rapidly over the past few years beyond traditional stevedoring to include full logistical services, including complete distribution to final clients as well as the exporting of paper from Europe. The group combines its expertise in pulp and paper handling with strategic partners in order to offer a seamless logistics network. Forwarding by road, rail, barge or sea, or any combination thereof, is carried out by a single service provider for reliable and competitive export solutions. A worldwide network of company-owned and managed terminals ensures high quality warehousing for safe storage and efficient handling. As part of its comprehensive service to both producers and consumers, the group also provides a full online tracking system to monitor shipments at all stages of the paper chain. A major accomplishment with regards to quality control was Westerlund’s achievement in 2002 of simultaneous ISO 9001 and ISO

14001 certification, becoming the first Belgian terminal operator to obtain this distinction. Ongoing investment in systems, procedures and training at its various terminals ensures that Westerlund provides the highest quality service while having the least impact on the environment and the community. BBI buyout consolidates Westerlund’s global position 2008 has seen a major development for the group with the decision by Babcock & Brown Infrastructure (BBI), Europe’s largest bulk and break bulk operations group specialist, to acquire the Westerlund Group. Through its majority-owned subsidiary Benelux Port Holdings, BBI acquired a majority shareholding in the Westerlund Group as part of its long-term business strategy of acquiring and developing high quality port companies. BBI employs 2,900 people worldwide in its port holdings and operations and handles approximately 150 million tons of various commodities annually. In 2007 BBI achieved group revenue of €0.8 billion. Jean-Jacques Westerlund, who remains CEO of the Westerlund Group, assured all stakeholders that the quality and commitment of Westerlund would remain unchanged. “Babcock & Brown has a record of operating to the same high quality standards as Westerlund is known for, and you may be assured that Westerlund will continue providing the dedicated service and attention to your interests in all the ports we operate,” he said. “We firmly believe that the new shareholding structure will allow our company to successfully pursue growth in our major markets and to serve our clients even better in future.”

Philip De Mulder Group Commercial Manager Westerlund Group Email: [email protected] www.westerlundgroup.com

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Boeckmans Shipping and Forwarding Boeckmans powering ahead at a rate of knots

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SHIPPING & FORWARDING

BOECKMANS BELGIE

In the world of maritime trade, the port of Antwerp has been recognised for centuries for its commercial strength. Barring the odd catastrophe (for example when the Dutch blockaded the river Scheldt in the 17th century), shipping lines are all but guaranteed to enter and leave the port fully laden. Antwerp-based shipping agent Boeckmans maintains this tradition of commercial success. Even in today’s massively consolidated shipping industry, Boeckmans remains independent and continues to thrive. The company won the prestigious Trends Gazelle Award for rapid growth during the period 2004-2005, an expansion driven largely by its increasingly strong reputation in the transport of conventional cargo, and bolstered by investment in its own shipping line. At the heart of Antwerp. At the heart of Europe Boeckmans was founded in the 1930s. Originally an expedition agent , the company emerged after the Second World War as a shipping agent. Majority shareholding is owned by the Durot family, who have steered the firm through the troughs and swells of the shipping industry since the 1970s. They are keen to maintain the firm’s status as an independent agent and to further develop their expertise and know-how in shipping and logistics. The company’s headquarters overlook the river Scheldt in Antwerp, perfectly placed for their shipping and forwarding role. Europe’s second largest port after Rotterdam, Antwerp has a strong tradition in logistics thanks to its inland location which gives it excellent multi-modal connections to the heart of Europe’s economies. The city also has a well-established commercial reputation, one that is strong in all areas — be it vehicles, break-bulk, containers, dry bulk, cooled transport, chemicals or fresh fruit. In 2007, the port handled 182 million tonnes of freight with container cargo making up the lion’s share.

A three-pronged attack Boeckmans is recognised for its focus on conventional cargo (non-containerised cargo such as steel, pipes, paper and forestry products, palletized and other unitary cargo). This specialisation developed as a result of the consolidation of container lines in the 1980s and 1990s, a period which saw the creation of huge multinational companies (such as Maersk) that then expanded their activities into the shipping agent role. Independent shipping agents were faced with a stark choice — be swallowed up by the big container lines or find their niche. Boeckmans followed a two-pronged strategy, specialising in conventional cargo and in specific regions (the Mediterranean, Middle East, South America and South-East Asia). A third, equally important priority has been the provision of a fully integrated service to its clients — both shipping lines and forwarders (and their customers). While Boeckmans’ prime service to shipping lines is commercial in nature (centred on finding cargo), it also offers an integrated suite of administrative and operational services. These include customs clearance, cargo handling, warehousing, distribution and control, trans-shipment, ship re-supply and more. Integrated computer systems enable efficient distribution and tracking of cargo through communication with local port custom authorities, ship owners and clients. Furthermore, market research technology and computer-aided traffic analysis systems allow for geographical area analyses, plus account profiles and statistics on imported and exported cargoes, by principal and by customer. As part of its integrated service, Boeckmans prides itself on offering an all-round, one-stop service that covers all ports in the Benelux. Investing in shipping and its people In addition to its agency role, Boeckmans is also thriving as a shipping line. Its short sea

service, Scaldic Med Line, owns three vessels and has two more on long leases. These currently operate the Mediterranean and North African routes. In line with Boeckmans’ chosen specialisation, Scaldic Med Line concentrates on conventional cargo. Since 2001, the company has seen strong growth on the back of these shipping line investments, culminating in that coveted Trends Gazelle Award. As an organisation with several decades of experience in shipping and logistics, Boeckmans has successfully managed to exploit the challenges and opportunities of a changing industry. Its expertise in maritime transport continues to develop and deliver results, both for its customers and for the company itself. One of the many ways it does so is in the employment market. Boeckmans is a sought-after employer because of the ideal learning environment it provides for all those committed to the maritime transport business.

Boeckmans Belgie n.v. Van Meterenkaai 1, B-2000 Antwerpen Belgium Tel: 32 (0)3 202 02 02 Fax: 32 (0)3 202 03 93 E-mail: [email protected] www.boeckmans.be

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Belgium’s Export Performance stays Strong Thanks to its strong industrial base and excellent transport infrastructure networks, Belgium is able to export three-fifths of its annual industrial output. Exports in most sectors have shown good growth in the past two years. Roughly 80% of Belgian trade is with neighbouring EU member states and the main export markets are France, Germany, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom and Italy.

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The most important sectors for Belgian exports are iron and steel, chemicals, textiles, machinery, motor vehicles, diamonds and precious metals, and prepared foodstuffs, notably chocolate and beer. Belgium’s total exports amounted to €236 billion in 2007, which represents an increase of 2.8% from 2006. Approximately€188 billion of this was intra-EU trade. In the 1st Quarter of 2008, exports amounted to €64.2 billion, an increase in volume of 3.3% from the equivalent three-month period in 2007. Belgium’s leading export market, France, made up 23% (€11.85 billion) of this total while Germany’s share was 21% (€11.21 billion). Belgium’s top five trading partners in the EU together account for 78% of Belgium’s intra-EU exports. Within the EU, Poland and Finland are emerging as growing markets for Belgian goods with exports to these two countries increasing by 33% and 29% in value respectively in April 2008 compared to the equivalent time period in 2007. Poland bought €419 million worth of Belgian exports in March 2008. Extra-EU exports grew marginally faster than intra-EU exports from 2004 to 2007, posting a cumulative growth rate of 27.2% in comparison with 24.7% for intra-EU exports. Outside of the EU, the largest market for Belgian exports is the United States with exports to this market totalling €10.18 billion in 2007. Exports to India amounted to €5.19 billion in 2007 while those to China increased to €2.8 billion for the same period.

Main export sectors One of the best-performing export sectors in 2007 was iron and steel, which grew its exports by a massive 65% to €6.61 billion in the 4th Quarter of 2007 in comparison with the equivalent time period the year before. Belgium’s top export performer over the past two years has been the chemical sector with foreign sales of over €8.73 billion in the 4th Quarter of 2007, marginally down on the 2006 4th Quarter figure of €8.79 billion. Machinery and vehicle sales were the second and third largest export sectors for the period, with figures of €7.96 billion and €7.56 billion respectively. With mineral exports (notably iron and steel) taking the fourth place, exports of non-ferrous metals amounted to €6.59 billion for the same three-month period, making this the fifth largest export sector. Plastics exports grew by 6.8% to €5.58 billion in the 4th Quarter of 2007 while exports of diamonds and precious metals increased marginally to €3.58 billion. Largely as a result of the steep fuel price hikes in 2008, imports increased by 32% in April 2008 compared to the same month in the previous year. This pushed Belgium’s trade deficit to €5 billion for the first four months of 2008. The National Bank of Belgium predicts a slowing of Belgian exports of goods and services in 2008 in line with flagging global demand but forecasts that exports will start to recover again from 2009.

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BRIC’s Breaking the Mold Bernard Pierre, Ambassador of Belgium to China

The global economy is going through rough times. As the dust of the subprime crisis settles, and western economies brace themselves for more, not less uncertainty, one undeniable truth looms large. The epicenter of the global economy is shifting to the east. Or rather more precisely: it is heading into BRIC territory. This is an unavoidable trend. And one that will speed up in the decades to come. The Chinese economy will have

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caught up with the American economy by 2035, as a recent Carnegie Endowment for peace report predicts. It will be twice as large by 2050. The BRICS by that time will have dwarfed the size of the G7 by over a hundred per cent. Does this mean the demise of the old continent is near? I would argue quite the contrary: BRIC markets offer us an unprecedented opportunity to add wealth to our own societies as long as we are able to

expand our exports and attract investment. True, Belgium could do better in this respect. While we are still the fourth most popular investment destination world wide (UNCTAD stats 2006), we seem to find it more difficult to attract BRIC investments. Also, we should urgently increase our export market share in BRIC territory (27th out of 30th place in terms of growth of BRIC exports between 2002 and 2006). The Belgian government however is fully

committed to take up the challenge. It will be all important as Minister of Foreign Affairs Mr Karel de Gucht has repeatedly pointed out, to speedily optimize our economic and public diplomacy tools. Belgium’s trade and investment relations in China are a case in point. Essentially, we will have to shape our answers around a number of key questions: how do we generate a multiplication effect of the investors which are already present in Belgium? How to tap into the resources

of the CIC, China’s Sovereign Wealth Fund? Can we convert technological cooperation into more trade and investment? To what extent does Belgium and its private sector need to brand themselves abroad in a really  country-specific manner? These are issues that trade and Investment Agencies all over in Europe are trying to come to grips with. As BRIC economies and multinationals are maturing, they call for a qualitative leap in our investment policy frameworks. In Belgium’s case, my view is that such a comprehensive approach will depend hugely on intense coordination between all levels over government and, crucially, with the private sector. The ‘how’, so to speak, will be as important as the ‘what’.   Bernard Pierre Ambassador of Belgium in China

Bernard Pierre - Ambassador of Belgium in China

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Economy and Industry

Free-of-Charge Expert Advice Flanders is a small region, but big in doing business with the rest of the world. To support its fast-growing economy, both local and foreign companies can count on the support from Flanders Investment & Trade. As a government agency, we provide free-of-charge expert advice to foreign companies who have their eye on Flanders.

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Looking to locate or 1expand your business 315/29 Wereldkaarten FIT-Netwerk.indd in Flanders? Flanders Investment & Trade can assist with your plans to locate your operational base in Flanders, at the heart of Europe. We provide you with useful insights and up-todate information on a wide range of aspects relating to business relocation, such as:

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Once established in Flanders, we assist you, among other things, with your expansion plans and help you identify new export markets. Looking for high-quality suppliers? If you are a company selling foreign products, Flanders is a place worth running your ruler over. Its industries offer many high-quality, innovative and semi-manufactured products that will astound you. This region is noted, the world over, for its • renowned chemical, logistics, automotive and life sciences industries;

• cutting-edge building materials,10-04-2008 interior 14:47:39 design and environmental technology firms; • top fashion designers and diamond cutting industry; • breweries and producers of delicious chocolates. We can help you get in touch with the many suppliers of profitable products developed and produced here in Flanders. Looking for support in your quest for innovation? Flanders Investment & Trade supports both local and foreign companies in their ongoing

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quest for innovation. We provide, among other things, expert advice and guidance for: • Obtaining government subsidies for innovation projects; • Tax incentives for R&D staff and for patentderived income; • Partnerships with our research centers and knowledge cluster; • Joint ventures and transfer of technology with Flemish hi-tech companies. To encourage the flow of innovative and technological know-how between Flemish and foreign companies, centers of knowledge and

government bodies, Flanders Investment & Trade had posted several technology attachés around the globe: • Information and Communication Technology (Mumbai, India); • Biotechnology and Nanotechnology (Tokyo, Japan); • Biotechnology (New York, USA); • Environment & Energy (Beijing, China); • Information and Communication Technology (Los Angeles, USA). Our global network at your service Flanders Investment & Trade has an extensive

network of representatives in over 90 cities around the globe. To find out more on what Flanders has to offer foreign companies looking to do business in and with the European region of the future, visit: www.flandersinvestmentandtrade.com

Flanders Investment & Trade Gaucheretstraat 90 1030 Brussels, Belgium Tel: +32 2 504 87 11 Fax: +32 2 504 88 99 E-mail:[email protected] www.flandersinvestmentandtrade.com

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Economy and Industry

In One City… All of Europe BRUSSELS: the decision-making heart of Europe

Headquarters of the majority of the European institutions and of many international organizations, the Brussels-Capital Region is not only the political decision-making center of the EU, it is also a major financial centre. Furthermore, thanks to its position in the economic heart of Europe and its excellent accessibility, the Region is an ideal gateway to the wider European market. The importance of Brussels as an economic centre cannot be overemphasized. In numerical terms, Brussels accounts for 20 percent of Belgium’s overall GDP and 17 percent of the nation’s jobs. It is also home to some 54.000 companies and exports more than half of its production. Brussels’ economic fabric is mainly made up of SMEs. They are export-oriented, diverse and successful, often building their business around “quality” and “know-how”. Indeed, the Region has acquired a reputation for the diversity and creativity of many of its companies. In order to boost the economic success of companies either already in Brussels or setting up in Brussels, the Region offers two comprehensive support services: • Brussels Exports, one of these services, works to promote trade between companies in Brussels and companies abroad. Created through a partnership between the Foreign Trade Department of the Ministry of the Brussels-Capital Region and Brussels Enterprises Commerce and Industry (BECI), the agency assists Brussels exporters by offering a wide range of services, including: - Information regarding Brussels products and services for foreign companies; - Customized assistance for exporters from Brussels and abroad, thanks to a network of over eighty economic and commercial attachés worldwide; - Organization of economic missions, contact days, stands on international trade fairs and meetings with foreign buyers;

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- Management of a Brussels’ exporters database, available on www.brusselsexporters.be; - Answering of any questions related to EU matters by way of the “Enterprise Europe Brussels”. • Invest in Brussels, a second support service, operates within the Brussels Enterprise Agency, an organization supported by the Brussels Regional Government. It promotes inward investment by providing assistance to overseas companies planning to set up and develop a business in Brussels. Besides supplying free office space as part of a Welcome Package, Invest in Brussels supplies free and confidential advice in matters of taxation, legal issues, public grants and business development.

www.brussels.irisnet.be

E-mail: [email protected] www.brusselstrade.be www.brussels-exporters.be

E-mail: [email protected] www.investinbrussels.com

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