Wallonia Export & Investment Agency (AWEX): Driving International Growth for Wallonia

Wallonia Export, officially known as the Wallonia Export & Investment Agency (AWEX), is the public service of the Walloon Region of Belgium. It serves as the primary instrument for developing and managing Wallonia's international economic relations. AWEX is a pivotal entity with a dual, interconnected mission: to attract foreign direct investment into the Walloon region and to stimulate foreign trade by assisting companies established in Wallonia in their export endeavors. This agency functions as a comprehensive "one-stop shop" for businesses globally, whether they are looking to expand into Europe or seeking to boost their international sales from Wallonia.

AWEX operates with a substantial global footprint, boasting a team of over 400 staff members, including a formidable network of approximately 200 experts stationed abroad. This extensive international network comprises 93 economic and cultural attach?s spread across five continents, covering more than 120 markets and numerous international organizations. This robust presence allows AWEX to provide unparalleled insights and local support, making it a critical partner for both Walloon companies venturing abroad and foreign entities considering Wallonia as a strategic base. The agency's commitment to quality service is underscored by its ISO 9001 certification.

Key Missions and Services

AWEX's multifaceted approach is structured around three core pillars: boosting Walloon exports, attracting foreign investors, and showcasing Wallonia on the global stage.

1. Boosting Walloon Exports Worldwide

For Wallonia-based businesses aiming to expand their reach into international markets, AWEX provides a wide array of tailored services and comprehensive support at every stage of their export journey.

• Market Research and Commercial Insights: AWEX offers in-depth market research and provides crucial commercial insights into foreign markets. This includes general market information, as well as customized market studies tailored to specific products, services, or target regions upon request. This data helps Walloon companies identify opportunities and mitigate risks in new territories.

• Financial Support and Funding: Recognizing the financial demands of international expansion, AWEX provides various forms of financial support and access to export financing. This can include direct financial aid for international growth projects and assistance with securing international financing through its subsidiary, SOFINEX, which specializes in this area. AWEX also offers financial assistance for certification processes required to launch products or services in foreign markets, covering a significant portion of eligible costs.

• Access to International Trade Fairs and Economic Missions: AWEX plays a crucial role in organizing and facilitating participation in international trade shows, economic missions, and sector-based contact days. Annually, AWEX organizes over 150 commercial promotion activities across approximately 70 countries and nearly 30 sectors, providing Walloon companies with invaluable opportunities for networking, showcasing their products, and establishing contacts with potential clients and partners worldwide.

• Connections and Networking: The agency leverages its vast global network to establish contacts with international organizations, potential business partners, buyers, decision-makers, and importers. They assist in identifying suitable companies in Wallonia for international partnerships and distribute lists of Walloon exporters to foreign prospects.

• Training and Export Strategies: AWEX offers training programs in international business and export strategies, equipping Walloon entrepreneurs and executives with the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate the complexities of global trade effectively.

• Promoting Wallonia's Export Potential: Beyond direct company support, AWEX actively promotes Wallonia's overall export potential abroad through various campaigns and initiatives, highlighting the quality and innovation of Walloon products and services.

2. Attracting Foreign Investors

AWEX acts as a dedicated investment promotion agency, actively seeking and providing comprehensive support to foreign companies looking to establish or expand their operations in Wallonia. Their services are entirely free of charge for potential investors.

• Strategic Location and Market Access: AWEX emphasizes Wallonia's strategic location at the heart of Europe, offering unmatched access to talent, suppliers, and clients across the continent. They highlight the region's robust logistics and infrastructure, including Liege Airport, Belgium's number one cargo airport, which serves as a major hub for various industries.

• Investment Incentives and Financial Aids: Foreign companies are informed about Wallonia's attractive tax system, various financial incentives, and available grants designed to encourage investment and facilitate business development within the region. AWEX provides detailed information on these support mechanisms.

• Hands-on Support with Business Setup: AWEX offers practical, hands-on assistance with administrative procedures, legal aspects of setting up a business, and navigating local regulations. They act as a single point of contact, simplifying the establishment process for foreign entities.

• Site Selection and Real Estate: The agency assists investors in finding suitable industrial sites and real estate locations, organizing visits and providing information pertinent to their operational needs.

• Networking and Partnerships: AWEX facilitates connections with local authorities, universities, technological partners (through relationships with local Economic Development Agencies and Science Parks), banks, regulators, and other companies within the Walloon ecosystem. They also connect investors with trustworthy specialized services such as tax, legal, HR, and finance consultants.

• Recruitment and Employment Support: AWEX provides assistance with recruitment processes, helping foreign companies find qualified personnel in Wallonia's highly skilled, multilingual workforce.

• Proactive Follow-up: The agency maintains a proactive and personalized follow-up service for investors already established in Wallonia, ensuring ongoing support and addressing any challenges that may arise during their operations. They are also involved in identifying new foreign investors for the acquisition of industrial sites undergoing restructuring.

3. Showcasing Wallonia on the World Stage

AWEX is responsible for upholding Wallonia's global reputation and ensuring the world recognizes the region's economic strengths, innovation capabilities, and cultural vibrancy.

• Promotional Campaigns and Events: Through media campaigns, promotional events, and the creation of compelling business materials, AWEX highlights Wallonia's key sectors, such as biotechnology, aerospace, logistics, renewable energy, and other cutting-edge industries.

• International Representation: With its network of economic and commercial attach?s, AWEX ensures Wallonia's presence and promotion at key international forums, conventions, and technology weeks worldwide.

In essence, the Wallonia Export & Investment Agency (AWEX) serves as a dynamic catalyst for Wallonia's economic development, fostering international trade and investment by providing an extensive suite of services, expert guidance, and robust networking opportunities for businesses both within and outside its borders.