Brussels, Belgium – January 25, 2026 — Brussels businesses are stepping confidently into 2026 with a suite of regulatory updates designed to streamline operations, enhance efficiency and support workforce growth. Effective from 1 January, measures including mandatory electronic invoicing for VAT-registered firms, wage increases for domestic workers and refined Low Emission Zone rules promise smoother processes and greener mobility, positioning the Capital Region as a hub for progressive enterprise.

The introduction of structured e-invoicing stands out as a cornerstone of these changes. All Belgian companies registered for VAT must now issue electronic invoices to fellow domestic VAT-registered businesses via the Peppol network, a secure Pan-European platform that facilitates faster, more reliable transactions. This shift eliminates paper-based delays, reduces administrative burdens and cuts costs for small and medium-sized enterprises, many of which form the backbone of Brussels’ vibrant service sector. Early adopters registering before the deadline benefit from a three-month grace period, allowing seamless integration without immediate penalties. Industry leaders anticipate this will foster greater digital maturity, enabling firms to allocate resources toward innovation and expansion.

Complementing this digital leap, hourly wages for Brussels domestic workers rise by €0.77, reflecting a commitment to fair compensation amid economic progress. Service voucher providers gain flexibility to recover reasonable administrative expenses with client consent, ensuring sustainable service delivery. These adjustments not only bolster household support roles but also invigorate local economies by increasing disposable income and stimulating consumer spending in neighbourhood shops and cafes.

Environmental stewardship receives a timely boost through the resumption of Low Emission Zone enforcement on 1 January. After a period of leniency, checks recommence, promoting cleaner air while offering exemptions for vehicle owners with purchase orders for compliant models dated by 31 December 2025. Looking ahead, the next phase in 2028 will phase out older diesel and petrol vehicles, encouraging investments in electric and hybrid fleets. Forward-thinking logistics companies in Brussels are already retrofitting vans and partnering with charging networks, turning compliance into a competitive edge that attracts eco-conscious clients.

Financial reforms further empower businesses navigating growth. A capital gains tax adjustment to 0.3% from 0.15% provides clarity for investors, while reduced VAT on heat pumps accelerates adoption of energy-efficient technologies. Pension enhancements introduce a new bonus structure with updated eligibility, rewarding longer careers and supporting retirement planning for employees. These steps align with broader European goals, as highlighted in recent IMF discussions in Brussels, where structural reforms were praised for bolstering supply-side resilience.

Telecom giant Proximus contributes to this positive momentum by adjusting rates for legacy internet, TV and telephone packages, reflecting investments in infrastructure amid rising operational costs. Newer bundles like Flex+ remain stable, ensuring continuity for modern subscribers. Meanwhile, energy suppliers enhance customer access with mandatory office-hour telephone and email support, building trust through responsive service.

Business associations in Brussels view these developments as catalysts for renewal. “These reforms equip our members with tools for the digital age while prioritising worker welfare and sustainability,” noted a spokesperson for a local chamber of commerce. Entrepreneurs report enthusiasm for e-invoicing pilots, with one logistics firm in Anderlecht projecting 20% time savings on billing. Heat pump installers near the city centre foresee a surge in demand, creating jobs in green installation and maintenance.

The timing aligns with upcoming EU dialogues, including the Agriculture and Fisheries Council on 26 January and EFTA trade working groups, where Brussels’ adaptive policies could inspire wider adoption. As firms adapt, the focus remains on collaboration: training programmes for e-invoicing rollout, incentives for LEZ-compliant vehicles and community workshops on pension benefits.

These initiatives underscore Brussels’ role as a forward-looking business centre. By prioritising efficiency, equity and ecology, the Capital Region not only meets compliance but sets a benchmark for constructive progress. Companies poised to leverage these opportunities stand to gain lasting advantages in a dynamic European landscape.

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