Belgium lifts mandatory weekly store closures

On 17 July, Belgium's federal parliament approved a reform proposed by Minister Él​éonore Simonet that removes the compulsory weekly shutdown for retail outlets. Shops can now choose to operate seven days a week and extend their evening hours to 21:00, up from the previous 20:00 limit.

The measure aims to give merchants greater flexibility in the face of e‑commerce growth and competition from neighboring countries. While many consumers welcome the added convenience, representatives of small‑business groups warn that larger chains may more easily staff the longer hours, potentially widening competitive imbalances.