Belgium..the Capital of Chocolate
- So what is the story behind the successful Belgian chocolate? Believe it or not, most Belgian chocolate is still made by hand using original equipment. Together with the quality of ingredients it makes Belgian chocolate truly unique. Over 172,000 tons of chocolate is produced per year with more than two thousands of shops selling chocolate throughout the country.
- During the 17th century, Belgium was ruled by Spain and thereby introduced to chocolate. Many royalty, artists and others of nobility experienced their first chocolate drink in the beautiful Grand Place. In fact, in 1697, Henri Escher, mayor of Zurich, Switzerland was so enthusiastic about the chocolate drink he experienced in Brussels that he introduced the idea to Switzerland. Ironically, today, Swiss chocolate is a primary competitor of Belgian chocolate.
Belgium’s Import-Export Sector
Belgium has a very open economy, and is very focused on international trade. Belgium consistently ranks within the world’s top five in terms of imports and exports per capita. According to the US Embassy, the U.S. is Belgium’s 5th largest trading partner and Belgium is the 18th largest trading partner for the U.S., putting it ahead of many larger countries. Source: American Chambers of Commerce in Belgium. www.amcham.be
These are the top 10 imports from the US:
- Gems, precious metals, coins: $3.7 billion
- Oil: $2.5 billion
- Pharmaceuticals: $2.1 billion
- Vehicles: $1.8 billion
- Machines, engines, pumps: $1.4 billion
- Organic chemicals: $862.6 million
- Electronic equipment: $546.5 million
- Plastics: $376.2 million
- Alcoholic beverages: $276.9 million
- Iron and steel: $225.3 million
19th richest Country 2013 (by GDP per capita)
Belgium ranks as 19th richest country in 2013. $37,459 IMF World Economic Outlook Database, April 2013. Belgium’s exports to America amounted to $17.7 billion or 0.8% of overall US imports. Source: www.worldrichestcountries.com
Trade
About 80% of Belgium’s trade is with fellow EU member states. Given this high percentage, it seeks to diversify and expand trade opportunities with non-EU countries. The Belgian authorities are, as a rule, anti-protectionist and try to maintain a hospitable and open trade and investment climate. The European Commission negotiates on trade issues for all member states, which, in turn lessens bilateral trade disputes with Belgium.
Source: Wikipedia