In light of the need for businesses to balance environmental sustainability, competitiveness and international outreach, hub.brussels has carried out an in-depth analysis entitled “Brussels foreign trade in a carbon-neutral world”.
Based on comprehensive research and interviews with more than thirty Brussels-based companies and organisations, this report reveals how businesses in the region are adapting to new commercial demands whilst strengthening their position in foreign markets.
It highlights not only the obstacles SMEs are facing, but also the strategic opportunities available to them.
In 2018, nearly 30% of global CO₂ emissions could be attributed to international trade (of which 33% were directly attributable to the transport of goods around the world). Today, various regulatory changes are encouraging companies to increase the transparency and sustainability of their operations.
For many SMEs in Brussels, this development presents a challenge, as they are forced to adapt to an ever-changing regulatory framework, often with limited resources to assess its impact. In addition, 76% of Brussels-based businesses’ main foreign customers are located in the European Union.
Sustainable transformation: a driver of competitiveness and growth
The report confirms that the transition to low-carbon international trade is more than just a technical or logistical issue. It is a multi-faceted challenge, encompassing logistics as well as regulation, business strategy, innovation, technology, knowledge development and funding. These aspects all present obstacles, but are also opportunities for action:
- The development and strengthening of sustainable logistics infrastructure can make it easier for smaller organisations to access export flows.
- New digital tools, such as high-performance CO₂ emissions monitoring systems, reduce the administrative burden whilst improving the reliability of data for internationalisation.
- Better knowledge-sharing – through sector-specific guides, audits or a centralised information platform – is essential to narrowing the gap between pioneering businesses and those still in the early stages of their transition.
- Support – whether financial or otherwise – from public authorities is also essential to help businesses expand internationally whilst starting out on their transition.
Indeed, companies that invest in carbon-neutral processes, logistics or products are better equipped to cope with supply chain disruptions, new regulations and changing customer expectations. By strengthening their position in markets where standards are becoming increasingly high, they will be more attractive to international partners.
