Belgium Minister warns of industrial decline in Europe

Belgian Minister of Employment, Economy, and Agriculture, David Clarinval, has issued a warning regarding the significant decline of the industrial sector in Belgium and Europe. Clarinval stated that approximately half of the industries in these regions have been lost since the year 2000, noting that this trend appears to be accelerating.

He identified several key factors contributing to this exodus, including wage indexation, which places Belgian industries at a competitive disadvantage compared to neighboring countries. Additionally, Clarinval highlighted high energy costs as a critical issue, specifically citing the situation at GSK. To protect domestic industries, he advocated for access to abundant, low-cost energy—noting that efforts to revive nuclear power were intended for this purpose—as well as support for research and development.