Commercial law in Belgium
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Our areas of expertise include:
- Commercial law
- Corporate law
- Employment law
- Equine law
There are many subtle yet significant differences between Belgian commercial and distribution law and that of other (EU) countries that foreign entrepreneurs should be aware of when conducting business in Belgium. Should you have any questions regarding general terms and conditions, commercial contracts, legal disputes or enforcement in Belgium, our multilingual lawyers specialising in commercial law in Belgium will be happy to assist you.
Contracts & General Terms and Conditions in Belgium
In particular, if your business operates across borders, you may encounter cross-border obstacles. For instance, if you sell to Belgian consumers via a webshop, you need to adapt your general terms and conditions to Belgian law. While significant aspects of consumer legislation are governed at the European level, resulting in uniform regulations across the EU, numerous minor discrepancies can have substantial ramifications.
It is also advisable to exercise caution when it comes to commercial contracts. It is important to determine which law applies and which courts have jurisdiction. There are European rules that determine the applicable law and jurisdiction, unless the parties have agreed otherwise. However, it is advisable to include this information in the contract.
It is therefore essential that you prepare thoroughly before you commence working in Belgium. Thorough preparation can save time and money, as well as preventing potential issues down the line. Commercial law harbours many challenges, but even more opportunities.Those who are well-versed in both areas will undoubtedly gain a competitive advantage over their peers.
For more information about our services in relation to international contracts and Belgian general terms and conditions, see Distribution, Contracts & GTC in Belgium.
Debt collection: What to do if your Belgian customer doesn't pay?
Commercial law is a broad and complex field of legal practice. In addition to drafting and reviewing contracts and general terms and conditions, commercial law also encompasses the collection of unpaid invoices. Should you encounter issues with non-payment from your Belgian partner or customer, our team is here to offer comprehensive support and guidance. Further information on our debt collection services can be found under Debt collection.
Litigation & enforcement in Belgium
Unfortunately, even after debt collection proceedings, not all debtors pay their unpaid invoices. There are occasions when debtors dispute invoices or cease communication. Our company is here to support you in enforcing your claims outside of the courtroom and, if necessary, represent you in a court of law. For further information on litigation in Belgium, please refer to our article entitled Litigation in Belgium.
Should you have an enforceable title against the Belgian debtor, for example a court judgement or a European order for payment, this title can be enforced. Please refer to the Enforcement in Belgium section for further information.
Do you have any questions?
Do you have any questions about commercial law in Belgium? Do not hesitate to contact our specialist lawyer Marco Wirtz. By email at m.wirtz@euregio.law or by phone +32 11 29 47 00.