Almost 2,500 artisans are active in Belgium

This photograph taken on January 18, 2023, shows Belgian glassblower Christophe Genard forming glass at his workshop in Seraing. When energy prices blew up IN 2022 in the wake of Russia's war in Ukraine, Belgian glassblower Christophe Genard had no other option but to close for three months and then, like many independent business owners in Belgium, forced to change how they work to meet soaring energy costs, even if it means producing less. Kenzo TRIBOUILLARD / AFP

At the end of 2024, there were 2,479 artisans active in Belgium, 408 more than in 2023, according to the Economic Affairs Department.

Most artisans work in the food sector (27.6%), furniture and interior design (14.3%), and the textile, leather, and fashion sector (13.2%). Some are active in multiple sectors.

The majority of artisans are women (37.9%), followed by men (29.7%), while 32.4% of artisanal enterprises are legal entities.

Recognition by the Economic Affairs Department confirms the authenticity and craftsmanship skills of the artisan concerned.