Economic studies

The Moroccan economy has undergone a strong transformation in the last twenty years and is in a very strong position today. A stable GDP growth of around 4% is expected in the coming years while inflation, interest and exchange rate are also stable. Morocco's ambition to serve as a bridge between Europe and Africa, along with other assets discussed in the study, make the country an attractive haven for investment. Additional focus in this study is on the logistics and transportation sector, infrastructure and energy.

This study was realised on the occasion of the Belgian economic mission to Morocco in November 2018.

Document only available in French and Dutch.

Because of its geographical isolation, New Zealand is home to very special fauna and flora, much of which is endemic. It is not only New Zealand's great biodiversity that is important, but also its primary sector, whether it be fishing, farming, forestry or natural energy resources, that is flourishing.

Over the last 20 years, the government has succeeded in transforming this agriculturally, geographically and economically isolated New Zealand into an industrialised economy with free trade. Like many other Anglo-Saxon countries since the 1990s, New Zealand experienced a period of very strong growth during the 2000s. This lasted until the global economic crisis, during which the decline of the New Zealand economy was relatively limited.

However, it is not only the natural resources and the primary sector that are important: New Zealand can also count on an internationally recognised film industry, without forgetting the importance of the construction and infrastructure sector.

Special attention will be paid to these sectors during the Belgian economic mission to New Zealand chaired by HRH Prince Philippe from 27 to 30 November 2012.

This study was realised on the occasion of the Belgian economic mission to Australia and New Zealand in November 2012.

Document only available in French and Dutch.

Oman has enjoyed a period of unprecedented economic progress over the last 40 years. This "boom" coincides with the reign of the current Sultan Qaboos bin Said al-Said, who came to power in 1970, and has been largely supported by the revenues of the oil sector (production and exports). In 2012, the oil sector accounted for almost 50% of GDP.

However, the high dependence on black gold makes the country vulnerable to shocks to the stock price of a barrel of crude oil. In response, the Sultanate launched Vision 2020 back in 1995, a long-term strategy built around three key components: "economic diversification, omanisation and privatisation". The key elements of this policy were subsequently developed and implemented through various five-year policy programmes, the most recent of which covers the period 2011-2015.

For the period 2013-2017, the Economist Intelligence Unit forecasts an average annual growth rate of 4.6%, 70% of which will be driven by growth in non-oil sectors, according to data from the Central Bank of Oman.

On the occasion of the joint Belgian economic mission to Oman (14-21 March 2014), the Belgian Foreign Trade Agency has published an economic study. The first chapter is devoted to Oman's macroeconomic situation, while the second contains an analysis of three dynamic sectors in which trade opportunities abound: infrastructure & logistics, energy & environment and the banking sector. This is followed by a selection of recent success stories of Belgian companies in Oman.

Document only available in French and Dutch.

Thanks to its fertile soil, Peru has many assets to attract investors. Significant growth since 2000 has earned the country the flattering nickname "Tiger of the Andes". Macroeconomic indicators are also excellent, including controlled inflation, an enviable public debt and comfortable foreign exchange reserves.

The various free trade agreements are proof of the country's international openness and attract foreign investors. The simplification of procedures and the reduction of tariff barriers are boosting trade relations and facilitating market access for companies, especially thanks to the signing of the bilateral treaty with the European Union in spring 2013.

Year after year, Peru rises in the various rankings that assess the attractiveness and competitiveness of countries. Peru is also rated the second best South American nation by credit rating agencies.  

On the occasion of the joint Belgian economic mission to Colombia and Peru from 18 to 25 October 2014, the Belgian Foreign Trade Agency published an 'economic study'. The first chapter is devoted to Peru's macroeconomic situation, while the second contains an analysis of four dynamic sectors in which trade opportunities abound: mines, energy, infrastructure and agro-industry. This is followed by a selection of recent success stories of Belgian companies in Peru.

Document only available in French and Dutch.

As the host of the 2020 FIFA World Cup, the emirate of Qatar has embarked on a colossal project to modernise its sports, hotel and transport infrastructure, largely funded by hydrocarbon revenues.

In addition to the oil and gas pipelines that have brought it prosperity today, the country still has enormous potential for diversification, which requires investment in training, research and development.

Qatar wants to move from an economy based on oil and gas to one based on knowledge and know-how. To meet this ambitious challenge, Qatar will undoubtedly have to rely on competent partners.

On the occasion of the joint Belgian economic mission to Qatar from 21 to 27 March 2015, the Belgian Foreign Trade Agency published an economic study. The first chapter is devoted to Qatar's macroeconomic situation, while the second contains an analysis of four dynamic sectors that offer many trade opportunities: gas and petroleum, construction, cleantech and healthcare. This is followed by a selection of recent success stories of Belgian companies in Qatar.

Document only available in French and Dutch.