Insights into the growth of Belgium ecommerce profiling payment methods, target audiences, marketing, social media, economy and logistics.
Economy
Belgium is home to 11.5 million people with a total GDP of US$533 billion. GDP per capita is currently US$50,102. Belgium is ranked as the 20th richest country by the World Bank GDP per capita rankings.
See insights into other exciting European markets like France, Belgium, and Germany.
Digital User Insights
There are currently 7.7 million ecommerce users in Belgium expected to reach 8.6 million by 2025. The average user spends US$871 online, which will grow to US$936 by 2025.
Product Categories
Total ecommerce revenue across all product categories is US$6.7 billion expected to reach US$8 billion by 2025. Fashion is currently the leading product category accounting for US$2.2 billion market share. Electronics is the second leading product category accounting for US$1.4 billion.
By 2025, Fashion will continue to lead, valued at US$2.6 billion. Electronics will remain in second place, reaching US$1.6 billion.
Logistics
In 2018, Belgium ranked 3rd in the World Bank Logistics ranking, making it among the easiest countries to deliver to in the world. 98% of Belgium’s population reside in urban areas, coupled with excellent logistics mean that cross border retail is relatively easy.
Preferred Online Payments
42% of online payments are made via card, split evenly between credit and debit. PayPal, and Bank transfer are two popular alternate payment method, with ewallets gaining traction to 26% by 2025.
Where does Belgium buy from?
Belgium imports from Netherlands (US$65.7 billion), Germany (US$51.3 billion), France ($39 billion), United States ($33.3 billion), and Ireland ($19 billion).
Internet and Device Usage
Internet penetration in Belgium is currently at 82%, and should reach 85% by 2025. Smartphone penetration is also 82% and is projected to grow to 88% by 2025.
Marketing
Total Marketing spend in Belgium has risen steadily in recent years with brands increasingly turning to TV and Digital.
Social Media
Belgium’s Social Media usage is high at 73% overall with 95% logging on to Facebook, 71.5% to both Instagram and YouTube. Other popular networks include Swarm, LinkedIn and Twitter.
For more market insights, check out the ESW series of blogs covering a range of emerging ecommerce markets.
*Insights derived from ESW data, Statista, WorldBank, OECD and other industry sources.
