G/SCM/N/372/EU/Add.2  
13 October  2021 
(21-7741) Page: 1/27 
Committee on Subsidies and Countervailing Measures  Original:  English/French  
 
  
SUBSIDIES  
NEW AND FULL NOTIFICATION PURSUANT TO ARTICLE XVI:1  
OF THE GATT 1994 AND ARTICLE 25 OF THE AGREEMENT  
ON SUBSIDIES AND COUNTERVAILING MEASURES  
EUROPEAN UNION 
Addendum  
The following addendum to the notification of the European Union relates to the subsidy programmes 
of Belgium . 
_______________  
  G/SCM/N/372/EU/Add.2  
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  CONTENT  
BELGIUM – FEDERAL STATE, ANNUAL REPORTING 2019 AND 20 20 ................................ . 4 
1  R&D SCHEME IN THE AERONAUTICAL SECTOR  ................................ .............................  4 
2  PROMOTION OF COMBINED RAIL TRANSPORT OF INTERMODAL TRANSPORT UNITS IN 
2019 AND 2020; AID FOR SINGLE -WAGONLOAD TRAFFIC IN 2019 AND 2020  .................  5 
3  AID FOR THE RESTRUCTURING OF THE "FREIGHT" ACTIVITIES OF THE PUBLIC 
LIMITED COMPANY SNCB  ................................ ................................ ................................ . 5 
4  AID FOR THE SHIPPING, DREDGING AND TOWING SECTORS  ................................ ....... 6 
5  SEAMEN EM PLOYED IN THE SHIPPING, MARINE TOWING AND MARINE DREDGING 
SECTORS  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..........................  7 
BELGIUM - BRUSSELS -CAPITAL region, Annual report 2021 – wto NOTIFICATION  ..........  8 
1 AID FOR ECONOMIC GROWTH  ................................ ................................ ....................  8 
1.1  Aid for investment (1)  ................................ ................................ ................................  8 
1.2 Aid for advisory services and training (1)  ................................ ...............................  9 
1.3 Aid for investment (2)  ................................ ................................ ....................  10 
1.4 Aid for advisory services and training (2)  ................................ .............................  12 
2 AID for ENTERPRISE Research, development and innovation (R&D&I)  ....................  13 
2.1 Aid for R&D&I (1)  ................................ ................................ .........................  13 
2.2 Aid for R&D&I (2)  ................................ ................................ .........................  14 
BELGIUM – WALLOON REGION (FIGURES FOR 2019 -2020)  ................................ ...........  16 
1  AID FOR SMES  ................................ ................................ ................................ ............  16 
1.1  Decree of 11 March 2004 – Implementation Order of 6 May 2004  ................................  16 
2  AID FOR DISADVANTAGED REGIONS  ................................ ................................ .........  17 
2.1  Decree of 11 March 2004 on regional incentives in favour of large enterprises Implementation 
Order of 6 May 2004  ................................ ................................ .............................  17 
2.2  Aid co -financed by the European Union – European Regional Development (ERDF) Programme 
2014-2020 ................................ ................................ ................................ .........  18 
3  RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY AID  ................................ ................................ .............  18 
3.1  Decree of 3 July 2008 on support for research, development and innovation in the Walloon 
Region  ................................ ................................ ................................ ..............  18 
BELGIUM – FLEMISH REGION  ................................ ................................ .........................  19 
1 AID FOR ECONOMIC EXPANSION – DECREE OF 16 MARCH 2012 ON THE  
ECONOMIC SUPPORT POLICY  ................................ ................................ .........................  19 
1.1 Decision of the Flemish Government of 17  December 2010 regarding the granting  
of aid to enterprises for ecological investments in the Flemish Region (Ecology Premium  
plus or EP+) – SA.54203  ................................ ................................ ........................  19 
1.2 Decision of the Flemish Government of 16 November 2012 regarding the  
granting of aid to enterprises for strategical ecological investments in the Flemish Region (Strategic 
ecology support or STRES) – SA.54204  ................................ ................................ ...... 20 
1.3 Decision of the Flemish Government of 17 July 2013 regarding strategic  
transformation aid for enterprises in the Flemish Region (Strategic Transformation  
Support – STS) – SA.54202  ................................ ................................ ....................  21 G/SCM/N/372/EU/Add.2  
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  1.4 Decision of the Flemish Government of 3 July 2020 regarding strategic  
transformation aid for enterprises in the Flemish Region for the production of  
COVID -19 related products (Strategic Transformation Support COVID -19) – SA.57605  ............  23 
2 AID TO ENTERPRISES – DECISION OF THE FLEMISH GOVERNMENT OF  
26 FEBRUARY 2016 REGARDING THE GRANTING OF AID TO SMALL AND  
MEDIUM -SIZED ENTERPRISES FOR ENTREPRENEURSHIP -ENCOURAGING  
SERVICES AND SME GROWTH SUBSIDY (SME  E WALLET + SME GROWTH  
SUBSIDY) – No SA number ( de minimis ) ................................ ................................ ....... 24 
3 RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT – DECISION OF THE FLEMISH  
GOVERNMENT OF 12  MAY 2017 REGARDING THE GRANTING OF AID TO  
ENTERPRISES FOR R&D WITH A KNOWLEdgE INTENSIVE CHARACTER  IN  
FLANDERS (SA.49177) AND DECISION OF THE FLEMISH GOVERNMENT OF  
12 MAY 2017 REGARDING THE GRANTING OF AID TO ENTERPRISES FOR  
DEVELOPMENT AND INNOVATION IN FLANDERS (SA.49178)  ................................ ........  25 
4 AID FOR EMPLOYMENT – DECISION OF THE FLEMISH GOVERNMENT OF  
10 JUNE 2016 REGARDING THE EXECUTION OF THE DECREE OF 4 MARCH 2016  
ON THE FLEMISH POLICY ON TARGETTED GROUPS OF EMPLOYEES (FORMERLY DECISION 
OF 18 JULY 2008 REGARDING THE PROFESSIONAL INTEGRATION  
OF PEOPLE WITH A DISABILITY )  ................................ ................................ ..................  26 
  G/SCM/N/372/EU/Add.2  
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  BELGIUM – FEDERAL STATE, ANNUAL REPORTING 2019 AND 2020  
1  R&D SCHEME IN THE AERONAUTICAL SECTOR  
1. Title of the subsidy programme, if relevant, or brief description or identification of the subsidy  
1) "Aeronautics 2008 -2013".  
2) "Aeronautics in the context of airbus -programs" → started in 2018.  
2. Period covered by the notification  
 1) 2008-mid 2014.  
 2) 2018-2023.  
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
Aid for R&D&I in the aeronautical industry.  
4. Background and authority for the subsidy  
Competent authorities: Federal Public Service Economy and Belgian Science Policy.  
5. Form of the subsidy (i.e., gra nt, loan, tax concession, etc.)  
Repayable advances.  
6. To whom and how the subsidy is provided  
Provided to companies in the aeronautical industry through advances.  
7. Amount of the Subsidy  
1) 2019: EUR 173.704.685 (cumulative 2019 included).  
2020: EUR 174.171.955 (cumulative 2020 included).  
2) 2019: EUR 8.509.360 (cumulative 2019 included).  
  2020: EUR 13.338.100 (cumulative 2020 included).  
8. Duration of the subsidy and/or any other time limits attached to it, including date of 
inception/commencement  
 1) Contract implementation started in the period 2008 -June 2014.  
 2) Contract implementation has started/will start in the period 2019 -2023.  
9. Trade effects of the Subsidy  
No trade effects, it only concerns aid (i.e. repayable advances) for R&D&I.  
1) Financial support in the form of a repayable advance capped at 60% of the eligible 
industrial research expenditures actually incurred and 40% of the experimental 
development expenditures actually incurred.  
2) Financial support in the form of a repayable advance capp ed at 60% of the eligible 
industrial research expenditures actually incurred and 35% of the experimental 
development expenditures actually incurred.  
This aid falls under the General Block Exemption Regulation (GBER).  G/SCM/N/372/EU/Add.2  
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  2  PROMOTION OF COMBINED RAIL TRANSPORT OF  INTERMODAL TRANSPORT UNITS IN 
2019 AND 2020; AID FOR SINGLE -WAGONLOAD TRAFFIC IN 2019 AND 2020   
(a) Form of the subsidy  
Combined transport and single -wagonload traffic.  
Direct subsidy.  
(b) Amount in 2019 and 2020  
Combined transport:  
2019: €4.060 million;  
2020: €3.974 million.  
Single -wagonload traffic:  
2019: €9.474 million;  
2020: €9.272 million.  
(c) Policy object ive 
Support for combined road -rail transport and single -wagonload traffic. The aim is to increase the 
share of rail transport, particularly when it comes to transporting sea containers and moving goods 
between activity centres. This aid is needed in view o f the expense of rail transport over the short 
distances covered in Belgium.  
(d) Duration  
Combined transport and single -wagonload traffic:  
Ends on 31 December 2021.  
(e) Rules and conditions  
Combined transport  
The subsidy must not exceed 30% of the transp ort costs. The aid is always less than the sum of the 
additional costs involved in using infrastructure adapted to combined transport but not to a 
competing, more polluting means of transport, and 50% of the external costs avoided. The subsidies 
granted ca n be cumulated with other subsidies from other authorities till maximum 30% of the 
transport costs.  
Single -wagonload traffic  
The subsidy must not exceed 30% of the transport costs.  
3  AID FOR THE RESTRUCTURING OF THE "FREIGHT" ACTIVITIES OF THE PUBLIC LIMITE D 
COMPANY SNCB   
(a) Form of the subsidy  
Ad hoc aid consisting of debt relief, a direct subsidy and an increase in capital.  
(b) Amount in 2019 and 2020  
2019: €5.36 million (direct subsidy);  
2020: / (closed)  G/SCM/N/372/EU/Add.2  
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  (c) Policy objective  
Individual aid for restructuring the operations of a firm in difficulty.  
(d) Duration  
Entered into force on 1 July 2010 and is closed at the end of 2019.  
(e) Rules and conditions  
The aid is subject to prior approval by the European Commission.  
Every year, a report is submitted to the European Commission for approval.  
4  AID FOR THE SHIPPING, DREDGING AND TOWING SECTORS   
1. Form o f the subsidy  
Exemption from payment of the professional withholding tax on the part of the employer.  
2. Amounts  
2019  
Aid for the merchant marine: EUR 68.266.385  
Aid for the dredging sector: EUR 10.544.355  
Aid for the towing sector: EUR 8.815.152  
2020  
The dat a for 2020 are not yet available.  
3. Policy objective  
Law of 24 December 1999 laying down fiscal and various other provisions, Article 4 of which provides 
for measures in favour of shipping, dredging and towing.  
4. Duration   
Indefinite.  
5. Rules and conditions  
Article 4 of the above -mentioned law exempts employers in the shipping and dredging sectors from 
the obligation to pay to the Treasury the professional withholding tax that they have withheld from 
the salaries of their workers employed on board a vessel that is registered in a Member State of the 
European  Union and has been granted a clearance certificate. Under subparagraph 4, the King may 
extend the application of this provision to the towing sector.  
In the three sectors concerned – shipping, dredging and towing – the measure applies to all vessels 
in possess ion of a clearance certificate. This certificate, a copy of which must be sent to the tax 
administration, shows that the vessel is registered in the Member State whose flag it flies.  
The employer is required to file a declaration separate from the professi onal withholding tax for 
those workers who fall within the scope of the measure, i.e. only the crew members that hold a 
seaman's licence.  G/SCM/N/372/EU/Add.2  
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  5  SEAMEN EMPLOYED IN THE SHIPPING, MARINE TOWING AND MARINE DREDGING 
SECTORS  
1. Form of the subsidy  
Direct exemption – reductions in social contributions.  
2. Amount in 2019-2020  
2019:  
Total reductions transport: EUR 21.236.363,57.  
Total reductions dredging: EUR 12.397.153,04.  
Total reductions towage: EUR 1.297.834,72.  
Total reductions: EUR 34.931.351,33.  
2020:  
Total reductions  transport: EUR 21.389.736,74*.  
Total reductions dredging: EUR 14.480.858,68*.  
Total reductions towage: EUR 1.332.227,21*.  
Total reductions maintenance work at sea : EUR 684.864,47*.  
Total reductions: EUR 37.887.687,10*.  
*The amount for 2020 is the sum of 4 quarters. The amount for the 4th quarter of 2020 is an 
estimate as the figures are not yet fully available.  
3. Policy objective  
Maintaining and improving maritime know -how and protecting and promoting employment for 
European seamen.  
4. Duration  
01/01/2003 -31/12/2022.  
5. Rules and conditions  
Federal:  
Article 3, §1, of the decree -law of 7 February 1945 concerning the social security of seafarers of the 
merchant marine, modified by the law of 17 December 2017 and the law of 12 August 2000. The 
Royal Decree of 13 J anuary 2014 exempting employers from certain employer contributions and 
workers 'contributions for the benefit of merchant shipping and sea towing enterprises and 
exempting workers' contributions from companies in the oil and gas sector. dredging at sea, m odified 
by the Royal Decree of 23 November 2015 and the Royal Decree of 6 December 2015.  
Regional:  
Decision of the Flemish Government amending Articles 1 and 3 of the Decision of the 
Flemish  Government of 13  November  2015 exempting certain employer contrib utions for companies 
that belong to the merchant shipping and towage sector and amending Articles  1 and 3 of the 
Decision of the Flemish Government of 23 September 2016 exempting certain employee 
contributions for companies belonging to the merchant shippi ng sector and towage sector and 
amending article 14 bis, first paragraph, of the Royal Decree of 16 May 2003 implementing Chapter  7 
of Title  IV of the Program Law of 24 December 2002 (I), concerning the harmonization and 
simplification of the schemes for reductions in social security contributions.  G/SCM/N/372/EU/Add.2  
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  BELGIUM - BRUSSELS -CAPITAL REGION, ANNUAL REPORT 2021 – WTO NOTIFICATION  
1 AID FOR ECONOMIC GROWTH  
1.1 Aid for investment  (1) 
Ordinance of 13 December 2007 on aid for the promotion of economic growth in favour of micro, 
small and medium -sized enterprises - Aid for general investment . 
• Commission Regulation (EU) No. 651/2014 of 17 June 2014 declaring certain categories of aid 
compatible with the internal market in application of Articles 107 and 108 of the Treaty  
• SA 46670 and SA 42119  
1. Form of the subsidy  
Financial aid is granted in the form of an investment premium . 
2. Amount of aid granted  
2.1.  In 2019  
Aggregate amounts (2019)  
Commitment s: EUR 4,342,778 
Payments : EUR 2,771,414 
Amounts for enterprises situated inside a development zone (2019)  
Commitments : EUR 2,973,512 
Payments : EUR 1,861,937 
Amounts for enterprises situated outside a development zone (2019)  
Commitments : EUR 1,369,266 
Payments : EUR 909,477 
2.2.  In 2020  
Aggregate amounts  (2020)  
Commitments : EUR 1,612,152 
Payments : EUR 1,393,941 
Amounts for enterprises situated inside a development z one (2020)  
Commitments : EUR 1,111,671 
Payments : EUR 1,029,509 
Amounts for enterprises situated outside a development zone  (2020)  
Commitments : EUR 500,480 
Payments : EUR 364,432 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
To provide financial support for the development of economic activities that generate employment 
and value added for the Brussels -Capital region through investment promotion . G/SCM/N/372/EU/Add.2  
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  4. Duration  
The Ordinance of  13 December 2007 entered into force in  2008 and has pro gressively been replaced 
by the Ordinance  of 3 May 2018 ( see below ).  
5. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of the subsidy  
• 15% of the investment subsidies were allocated to dossiers submitted by industrial and non -
industrial enterprises ; 
• 85% were allocated to dossiers submitted by business or services enterprises . 
6. Conditions for granting aid  
Part of the aid for general investment by micro, small and medium -sized enterprises in the Brussels -
Capital region is governed by the content of the Organizational Ordinance of  13 December  2007 on 
aid for the promotion of economic growth . 
Aid is granted in the form of investment premiums . The r ate of the subsidy varies between 2.5% 
and 30% based on the amount of the investment . 
1.2 Aid for advisory services and training (1) 
Ordinance of 13 December 2007 on aid for the promotion of economic growth in favour of micro, 
small and medium -sized enterprises – Aid for advisory  services , studies  and training . 
• Commission Regulation (EU) No. 651/2014 of 17 June 2014 declaring certain categories of aid 
compatible with the internal market in application of Articles 107 and 108 of the Treaty  
• SA 46671  
• Commission Regulation (EU) No. 1407/2013 of 18  December  2013 on the application of 
Articles  107 and 108 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union to de minimis aid  
1. Form of the subsidy  
Financial aid is granted in the form of a premium . 
2. Amount of aid granted   
2.1.  In 2019  
Nature of expense  Commitments  Payments  
Advisory services  / studies  EUR 1,648,256 EUR 1,286,350 
Training  EUR 69,889 EUR 62,872 
TOTAL  EUR 1,718,145 EUR 1,349,221 
 G/SCM/N/372/EU/Add.2  
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  2.2.  In 2020  
Nature of expense  Commitments  Payments  
Advisory services  / studies  EUR 25,184 EUR 22,348 
Training  EUR 0 EUR 0 
TOTAL  EUR 25,184 EUR 22,348 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
To provide financial support for the development of economic activities that generate employment 
and value added for the Brussels -Capital region through recourse  to studies , advisory services and 
training . 
4. Duration   
The Ordinance of  13 December 2007 entered into force in 2008 and expired in  2018.  
5. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of the subsidy  
It is impossible to determine the trade effects of the subsidy . 
6. Conditions for granting aid   
The subsidies consist of premiums am ounting to 50% of the expenses incurred . 
1.3 Aid for investment (2) 
Ordinance of 3 May 2018 on aid for the economic development of enterprises  – Aid for investment . 
• Commission Regulation (EU) No. 651/2014 of 17 June 2014 declaring certain categories of aid 
compatible with the internal market in application of Articles 107 and 108 of the Treaty  
• SA 52749  
1. Form of the subsidy  
Financial aid is granted in the form of an investment premium.  
2. Amount of aid granted  
2.1.  In 2019  
Aggregate amounts (2019)  
 Commitments  Payments  
TOTAL  EUR 675,668 EUR 560,074 
Amounts for enterprises situated inside a development zone (2019)  
 Commitments  Payments  
TOTAL  EUR 350,771 EUR 282,646 
 
Amounts for enterprises situated outside a development zone (2019)  
 Commitment s Payment s 
TOTAL  EUR 324,897 EUR 277,428 
 G/SCM/N/372/EU/Add.2  
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  Amounts for enterprises situated inside a stimulated urban economy zone (ZEUS) (2019 ) 
 Commitment s Payments  
TOTAL  EUR 0 EUR 0 
 
2.2.  In 2020  
Aggregate amounts (2020)  
 Commitment s Payments  
TOTAL  EUR 3,486,505 EUR 1,990,544 
 
Amounts for enterprises situated inside a development zone (2020)  
 Commitment s Payment s 
TOTAL  EUR 2,241,230 EUR 1,063,367 
 
Amounts for enterprises situated outside a development zone (2020)  
 Commitments  Payment s 
TOTAL  EUR 1,245,275 EUR 927,177 
 
Amounts for enterprises situated inside a stimulated urban economy zone (ZEUS) (2020)  
 Commitment s Payment s 
TOTAL  EUR 149,260 EUR 64,465 
 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
To provide financial support for the development of economic activities that generate employment 
and value added for the Brussels -Capital region through investment promotion . 
4. Duration  
The Ordinance of  3 May 2018 was implemented in stages. It should remain in force until 2028 . 
5. Statistical data  permitting an assessment of the trade effects of the subsidy  
• 20% of the investment subsidies were allocated to dossiers submitted by industrial and 
non-industrial enterprises ; 
• 80% were allocated to dossiers submitted by business or services enterprises.  
6. Conditions for granting aid  
The aid consists of premiums that vary particularly according to the size of the enterprise . G/SCM/N/372/EU/Add.2  
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  1.4 Aid for advisory services and training (2) 
Ordinance of 3 May 2018 on aid for the economic development of enterprises – Aid for advisory 
services, studies  and training . 
• Commission Regulation (EU) No. 1407/2013 of 18 December 2013 on the application of 
Articles 107 and 108 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union to de minimis aid . 
1. Form of the subsidy  
Financial aid is granted in the form of a premium . 
2. Amount of aid granted  
2.1.  In 2019  
Nature of expense   Commitments  Payments  
Advisory services  / studies  EUR 333,098 EUR 246,434 
Training  EUR 30,524 EUR 18,576 
TOTAL  EUR 363,621 EUR 265,009 
 
2.2.  2020  
Nature of expense  Commitments  Payments  
Advisory services / studies  EUR 1,000,862 EUR 487,271 
Training  EUR 89,981 EUR 53,767 
TOTAL  EUR 1,090,842 EUR 541,038 
 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
To provide financial support for the development of economic activities that generate employment 
and value added for the Brussels -Capital region through recourse  to studies , advisory services and 
training . 
4. Duration   
The Ordinance will remain in force until 2028.  
5. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of the subsidy  
It is impossible to determine the trade effects of the subsidy . 
6. Conditions for granting aid   
Advisory services /studies : 
• Consultancy premium  
The premium concerns micro , small and medium -sized enterprises that have an operating base in 
the Brussels -Capital region . 
• Web premium  
The premium concerns micro and small enterprises with an operating base in the Brussels -Capital 
region that  are active in certain sectors . G/SCM/N/372/EU/Add.2  
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  Training : 
• Training premium  
The premium concerns micro and small enterprises with an operating base in the Brussels -Capital 
region that are active in certain sectors. It c overs part of the training expenses for each member of 
staff, with the exception of  temporary workers and students . 
2 AID FOR ENTERPRISE RESEARCH, DEVELOPMENT AND INNOVATION (R&D&I)  
2.1 Aid for  R&D&I (1)  
Ordinance of 26 March 2009 on the promotion of research, development and innovation (industrial 
research subsidies ). 
• Commission Regulation (EU) No. 651/2014 of 17 June 2014 declaring certain categories of 
aid compatible with the internal market in application of Articles 107 and 108 of the Treaty  
• Commission Regulation (EU) No. 1407/2013 of 18 December 2013 on the application of 
Articles 107 and 108 of the Treaty on the Functioning of t he European Union to de minimis 
aid  
• Framework for State aid for research and development and innovation  2014-2020 
• SA 35533 – SA 35534 – SA 35535 – SA 35536 – SA 35537 – N566/2009  
1. Form of the subsidy  
Subsid ies/repayable advances  
2. Amount of aid granted  
2.1.  In 2019  
Description  Commitmen t Payments  
Financing for joint-centre projects  0 EUR 5,868,587.88 
Innovative vouchers  0 EUR 69,359.1 
Jointly developed R&D&I projects  0 EUR 3,937,333.6 
Setting up of jointly developed R&D&I projects  0 EUR 353,334.21 
Collaborative R&D&I projects  0 EUR 11,304,348 
Setting up of European projects  EUR 47,705.00  EUR 93,650 
Setting up of living lab R&D&I projects  0 EUR 99,960 
European p rogramme  EUR 599,473.00  EUR 661,988.7  
European programme  EUR 383,100  EUR 853,269.65  
European programme  0 EUR 51,703.29  
European programme  0 EUR 71,220.2  
Feasibility studies  EUR 4,970.00  EUR 243,295.98  
Science awareness festival  0 EUR 689,849.72  
Innovative start -up prize  0 EUR 4,414,229.84  
Patents  EUR 7,165.00  EUR 130,496.08  
Proof of business  EUR 362,867.00  EUR 754,529.75  
Programmes of regional interest  0 EUR 783,524.54  
Experimental development  EUR 5,808,082.00  EUR 6,660,830.4  
EUR 20,601,772.03 
 0 EUR 1,227,242.74 
Organizational and process innovation  EUR 87,866.00  
 EUR 184,518.6  
EUR 10,749.66 
Industrial research  EUR 1,598,746.00  EUR 6,629,582.16  
EUR 897,812  
Science awareness projects  
EUR 338,430.00  EUR 82,523.84  
EUR 1,336,975.24 
EUR 414,902 
European programme  0 EUR 246,915.48  G/SCM/N/372/EU/Add.2  
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  Description  Commitmen t Payments  
European  programme: Ambient Assisted Living  0 EUR 520,521  
EUR 5,336,112 
European programme:  Making Cities Work 0 EUR 335,132  
Mobile f ablab science awareness  0 EUR 180,000  
Living lab R&D&I projects  0 EUR 2,912,533.2  
 
2.2.  In 2020  
Description  Commitments  Payments  
Financing for joint -centre projects  EUR 2,998,957  EUR 4,502,053.55  
Innovative vouchers  EUR 204,174  EUR 18,120  
Jointly developed R&D&I projects  EUR 1,909,672  EUR 1,677,101.06  
Setting up of jointly developed R&D&I projects  EUR 341,778  EUR 15,776.24  
Setting up of European projects  EUR 152,152  EUR 113,957  
European programme: Ambient Assisted Living  EUR 14,948  EUR 253,802.85 
European programme  EUR 699,925  EUR 805,443  
European programme  EUR 225,933 EUR 968,194.96  
European programme  EUR 89,743  0 
 EUR 2,000,000  0 
European programme  0 EUR 38,374.68  
European programme  0 EUR 295,706.4  
European programme: Making Cities Work 0 EUR 365,352.32  
European programme  0 EUR 5,727.96  
Science awareness festival  EUR 278,500  EUR 90,446.14  
Innovative start -up prize  EUR 2,955,900  EUR 3,143,896.92  
Patents  EUR 181,858  EUR 24,891.48  
Feasibility studies  EUR 1,019,775 0 
Setting up of collaborative R&D&I projects  EUR 94,116  0 
Setting up of living lab R&D&I projects  EUR 49,884  0 
Proof of business  EUR 445,398  EUR 185,089.86  
Programmes of regional interest  EUR 2,044,287  EUR 568,290.19  
Experimental development  EUR 5,808,082  EUR 10,196,894.37  
EUR 12,218,946.24 
Organizational and process innovation  EUR 87,866  EUR 79,079.4  
Industrial research  EUR 1,598,746  EUR 5,290,215.14  
EUR 1,574,197.65  
Science awareness projects  EUR 626,134  EUR 20,000  
EUR 113,119.7 
EUR 187,089.88 
Mobile fablab  science awareness  0 EUR 65,430.73  
Living lab R&D&I projects  EUR 1,792,367  EUR 2,313,300.92  
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
To strengthen basic industrial research by industries . 
4. Duration of aid  
This ordinance is no longer in effect . 
5. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of the subsidy  
Not assessable in the short or medium term . 
2.2 Aid for R&D&I  (2) 
Ordinance of  27 July 2017 on the promotion o f research , development and innovation through the 
granting of aid for economic purposes in favour of enterprises and research bodies assimilated to  
enterprises . 
• Commission Regulation (EU) No. 651/2014 of 17 June 2014 declaring certain categories of aid 
compatible with the internal market in application of Articles 107 and 108 of the Treaty  G/SCM/N/372/EU/Add.2  
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  • Commission Regulation (EU) No. 1407/2013 of 18 December 2013 on the application of Articles 
107 and 108 of the Treaty on the Functioning of the European Union to de minim is aid 
• Framework for State aid for research and development and innovation 2014 -2020 
• SA 60199 – 60200 – 60201 – 60202 – 60203 – 60204 – 60205 – 60206 – 60207 – 60195 – 
60188 – 60196  
1. Form of the subsidy  
Subsidies/repayable advances  
2. Amount of aid granted in  2019 and 2020  
2.1. 2019  
Description  Commitment  Payments  
Jointly developed R&D&I projects  EUR 849,986.00  0 
European programme  EUR 599,473.00  0 
European programme  EUR 383,100.00  0 
Feasibility studies  EUR 51,498.00  0 
Science awareness festival  EUR 278,500.00  EUR 80,739.87  
Setting up of European projects  EUR 57,705.00  0 
Innovative start -up prize  EUR 1,455,900.00  0 
Innovative vouchers  EUR 88,599.00  EUR 6,634  
Patents  EUR 7,165.00  0 
Proof of business  EUR 362,867.00  0 
Programmes of regional interest  EUR 679,992.00  EUR 1,457,200  
Setting up of jointly developed R&D&I projects  EUR 57,679.00  0 
Experimental development  EUR 8,818,888.00  EUR 729,154  
Organizational and process innovation  EUR 87,866.00  0 
Industrial research  EUR 6,339,571.00  0 
Science awareness projects  EUR 666,295.00  EUR 129,918.6  
Financing for joint -centre projects  0 EUR 2,165,940  
 
2.2. 2020  
Description  Commitment   Payments  
Jointly developed R&D&I projects  EUR 798,066.00  EUR 1,987,839.18  
Living lab R&D&I projects  EUR 1,097,237.00   
European programme:  Ambient Assisted Living EUR 14,948.00  EUR 14,948  
European programme  EUR 699,925.00  EUR 514,909.8  
European programme  EUR 225,933.00  EUR 225,933  
European programme  EUR 89,743.00   
Feasibility studies  EUR 973,247.00  EUR 508,722  
Setting up of European projects  EUR 146,225.00  EUR 76,407  
Innovative start -up prize  EUR 1,500,000.00  EUR 3,044,680.9  
Innovative vouchers  EUR 115,575.00  EUR 106,509  
Patents  EUR 181,858.00   
Proof of business  EUR 445,398.00  EUR 51,5398  
Programme of regional interest  EUR 369,930.00  EUR 938,092  
Science awareness festival   EUR 260,422.4  
Setting up of jointly developed R&D&I projects  EUR 275,689.00  EUR 132,422.25  
Setting up of collaborative R&D&I projects  EUR 60,505.00  EUR 43,275  
Experimental development  EUR 7,006,466.00  EUR 1,2087,493.59  
Industrial research  EUR 5,439,133.00  EUR 9,834,843.79  
Science awareness projects  EUR 226,916.00  EUR 1,051,821.81  
Setting up of living lab R&D&I projects  EUR 49,844.00  EUR 22,750  
 
3. Policy objective and/or purpose of the subsidy  
To strengthen basic industrial research by industries . G/SCM/N/372/EU/Add.2  
- 16 - 
  4. Duration of aid  
The Ordinance will remain in effect  until 31 December 2023.  
5. Statistical data permitting an assessment of the trade effects of the subsidy  
Not assessable in the short or medium term.  
BELGIUM – WALLOON REGION (FIGURES FOR 2019 -2020)  
1  AID FOR SMES  
1.1  Decree of 11 March 2004 – Implementation Order of 6 May 2004  
1. Form of the subsidy  
Investment premium (non -repayable premium) irrespective of the investment financing method. 
Investments eligible to receive a premium are those in tangible and intangible fixed assets.  
Exemption from the tax on income from immovable assets (maximum five years) for investment in 
immovable assets, including investment in real property and fixtures.  
2. 2019 budget  
The budget for 2019 amounted to EUR 91,00 million. The premiums are awarded for a wide range 
of projects and sectors of activity.  
 2020 budget  
The budget for 2020 amounted to EUR 81,85 million. The premiums are awarded for a wide range 
of proj ects and sectors of activity.  
3. Policy objective  
The incentives created to assist the socio -economic development of the Walloon Region are awarded, 
via a grant decision by the Walloon Region, to any natural or legal person that undertakes to carry 
out one or  more operations aimed at achieving sustainable development and promoting job creation. 
The incentives are only awarded if they will make a decisive contribution to achieving these aims.  
In practical terms, the premiums are awarded in order to encourage in vestment by small 
and medium -sized enterprises (SMEs). An SME is an enterprise with a payroll not exceeding 
250 people and a turnover not exceeding EUR 50  million or an annual balance sheet total not 
exceeding EUR  43 million.  
The premiums are awarded to SM Es in the industrial, handicraft, tourism, trade and services sectors.  
The scheme applies throughout the territory of the Walloon Region for all enterprises meeting the 
SME criteria.  
The scheme is therefore not specific, except insofar as it applies only t o SMEs.  
4. Duration  
No time -limit has been fixed for the implementation of the scheme and the budget is adopted 
annually . G/SCM/N/372/EU/Add.2  
- 17 - 
  2  AID FOR DISADVANTAGED REGIONS  
2.1  Decree of 11 March 2004 on regional incentives in favour of large en terprises 
Implementation Order of 6 May 2004  
This scheme replaces the law of 30  December  1970, as amended by the Decree of 25  June 1992. 
It entered into force for any request submitted after 1  July 2004.  
Aid to large enterprises are only granted for projects in favour of new economic activity in the area 
concerned (according to Commission regulation (EU) n° 651/2014).  
1. Form of the subsidy  
Investment grant (non -repayable grant) irrespective of the investment financing method. 
Investments in tangible and intangible fixed assets are eligible.  
Exemption from real estate tax for seven years on equipment and tools and for maximum of 5  years 
on buildings.  
2. 2019 budget  
The budget amounted to EUR 13,54 million. The premiums are awarded for a wide range of projects 
and sectors of activity.  
 2020 budget  
The budget amounted to EUR 12,10 million. The premiums are awarded for a wide range of projec ts 
and sectors of activity.  
3. Policy objective  
In order to assist the sustainable development of the Region, the Government, within the specific 
budgetary limits set annually, may grant incentives to large enterprises which have operational 
headquarters situ ated in a development zone in the Walloon Region and which have an investment 
programme significantly contributing to sustainable development and in favour of new economic 
activity in the area concerned.  
In order to assess the importance of an investment p rogramme in relation to sustainable 
development, are taken into particular consideration the nature of the investment programme, the 
job creation, the field of activity in which it operates and the economic environment in which it is 
implemented.  
The arran gements for granting the incentive are the subject of an agreement concluded between 
the parties.  
The incentives are granted in accordance with European Community regulations and, in particular, 
those concerning regional State aid in conformity with the ce ilings set by the Euopean Commission 
decision approving the eligible areas map for Belgium and other Community rules adopted under 
the provisions set forth in Articles 108 of the Treaty establishing the European Union.  
The incentives provided for by the pr esent Decree may be combined with aid from European 
structural funds.  
4. Duration  
No time -limit has been fixed for the implementation of the scheme and the budget is adopted 
annually . G/SCM/N/372/EU/Add.2  
- 18 - 
  2.2  Aid co -financed by the European Union – European Regional Development (ERDF ) 
Programme 2014 -2020   
Implementation Order of 6  May 2004, as amended by the Order of 17  January  2008.  
Decree of 11  March  2004 on regional incentives i n favour of small and medium -sized enterprises.  
This order of 23 July 2015 introduced a scheme of assistance relating to the Objective " Investment 
for Growth and Employment " ("Convergence" and "Competitiveness and Employment" programmes 
for large enterprises and) for SMEs.  
Within the framework of aids co -financed by the European Union (ERDF) 2014 -2020 programme, 
measure 1.1.1. aims at stimulating investment in small and mediu m sized companies.  
1. Form of the subsidy  
Regional aid is co -financed by the European  Union (ERDF). The aid takes the form of  an investment 
premium as described above.  
2. 2019 budget  (regional component):  
The budget amounted to EUR 14,18 million. Aids are granted to a wide range of projects and sectors 
of activity (divided in 16 eligible fields of activity).  
2020 budget  (regional component)  
The budget amounted to EUR 7,28 million. Aids are granted to a wide range of projects and sectors 
of activity (divide d in 16 eligible fields of activity).  
3. Policy objective  
The same as mentioned above, except that there are specific sectorial requirements and a minimum 
number of jobs to be created (4 or 6 units depending on the size of the company).  
4. Duration   
The scheme f or the period 2007 -2014 has closed. The current scheme is the European Regional 
Development (ERDF) Programme 2014 -2020, but only for SMEs and takes end 31/12/2023.  
3  RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY AID  
3.1  Decree of 3 July 2008 on sup port for research, development and innovation in the 
Walloon Region   
Walloon Government Order of 18 September 2008 on support for research, development 
and innovation in the Walloon Region  
1. Form of the aid  
A. Aid for innovation for small and medium -sized enterprises.  
B. Aid for research projects - experimental development – subvention  
C. Aid for research projects - experimental development - repayable advances  
D. Aid for research projects - Industrial research.  
E. Aid for organisational and process innovation.  
F. Aid for Covid  G/SCM/N/372/EU/Add.2  
- 19 - 
  2. 2019 and 2020 budgets  
Form of the aid  Budget in 2019 €  Budget in 2020 €  
A. 4.563.248  4.087.447  
B. 38.470.900  96.339.397  
C. 68.374.877  68.690.843  
D. 40.532.777  49.259.848  
E. 700.000  -  
F.  14.820.855  
Total  152.641.802  233.198.390  
 
3. Policy objective  
This is horizontal aid designed to promote research and development and to encourage innovation. 
It is available to all economic sectors.  
The aid is not granted automatically, but depends on an assessment of the quality of the project by 
the administrative services and, in the case of aid awarded on the basis of calls for project s, 
by independent international experts.  
Where the aid consists of a repayable advance, the beneficiary enterprise pays it back in the form 
of regular payments if it has decided to exploit the results of the research industrially 
or commercially.  
4. Duration   
The budget for R&D aid is adopted annually by the Walloon Parliament.  
The duration of aid corresponds to the duration of the research work or the study financed . 
5. Statistical data  
The aid has an impact on trade because it may lead to the marketing of innovative products, 
processes or services. However its impact is difficult to isolate from the many other factors affecting 
trade, and is therefore difficult to evaluate statistically.  
BELGIUM – FLEMISH REGION  
1 AID FOR ECONOMIC EXPANSION – DECREE OF 16 MARCH 2012 ON THE ECONOMIC 
SUPPORT POLICY  
On 16 March 2012 a ne w decree on the economic support policy entered into force (and replaced 
the old decree of 31 January 2003). The decree contains merely a consolidation of the current 
EU state aid legislation.  
1.1 Decision of the Flemish Government of 17  December 2010 regardin g the granting 
of aid to enterprises for ecological investments in the Flemish Region (Ecology Premium 
plus or EP+) – SA.54203  
2. Form of aid  
This scheme is aimed at investment aid, but exclusively for ecological investments, as defined in the 
General Block E xemption Regulation (GBER) No. 651/2014 of the European  Commission 
(OJ, 26/6/2014, L 187). The aid is given in the form of a subsidy.  
3. Amount of aid in 2019 and 2020  
In 2019, the Flemish Government granted aid for ecological investments based on this scheme  for 
a total budget of EUR 19,94 million.  G/SCM/N/372/EU/Add.2  
- 20 - 
  In 2020, the Flemish Government granted aid for a total budget of EUR 9,02 million.  
4. Objectives of the aid  
The Flemish Government agrees with the overall aim of reduction and reorientation of aid measures 
towards more horizontal objectives. The promotion of ecological investments is a valuable tool in 
achieving that goal.  
5. Time-frame  
The decision of the Flemish Government of 17 December 2010 came into force on 1  February  2011. 
The scheme was amended slightly  in 2015 to bring it in line with the new 2014 GBER. The scheme 
will continue until 2023.  
6. Statistics  
There are no statistics available which could contribute to the evaluation of the effects of this aid 
scheme on WTO commerce and trade.  
7. Legal basis  
The Dec ree of 16 March 2012 on the economic support policy and its implementing decisions of the 
Flemish Government.  
8. Rules and conditions  
The scheme has been developed to provide aid to all enterprises, regardless of their size, for 
ecological investments. The en terprises qualifying for aid will receive a percentage of their eligible 
investment costs.  
Depending on the type of investment (environmental protection, energy, renewals, etc.), various 
aid intensities are possible, within the maximum limits of the EU GBE R. The Flemish Government 
established a limited list of accepted technologies which qualify for aid. If an enterprise invests in 
an accepted technology, it can receive a subsidy. If the technology is not already accepted, another 
procedure is followed in o rder to investigate the merits of the new technology. If accepted by the 
engineers of the Ministry of the Flemish Community, the new technology is placed upon the list, thus 
ensuring easier acceptance for future cases.  
The various Decisions of the Flemish Government and ministerial decrees can adapt the scheme 
towards other types of eligible cost, aid amounts or aid percentages. The scheme is open -ended, 
where every eligible case will receive aid. The maximum aid amount is EUR 1 million, and the aid 
intensi ty is set at 15 -55% of the extra costs.  
1.2 Decision of the Flemish Government of 16 November 2012 regarding the granting of 
aid to enterprises for strategical ecological investments in the Flemish Region (Strategic  
ecology support or STRES) – SA.54204  
2. Form of aid  
This scheme is aimed at investment  aid, but exclusively for ecological investments, as defined in the 
General Block Exemption Regulation (GBER) No. 651/2014 of the European Commission 
(OJ, 26/6/2014, L 187). The aid is given in the form of a subsidy.  
3. Amount of aid in 2019 and 2020  
In 2019, the Flemish Government granted aid for ecological investments based on this scheme for 
a total budget of EUR 7,55 million.  
In 2020, the Flemish Government granted aid for a total budget of EUR 13 million.  G/SCM/N/372/EU/Add.2  
- 21 - 
  4. Objectives of the aid  
The Flemish Government agrees with the overall aim of reduction and reorientation of aid measures 
towards more horizontal objectives. The promotion of ecological investments is a valuable tool in 
achieving that goal.  
5. Time-frame  
The decision of the Flemish Government of 16 Novemb er 2012 came into force on 28  February  2013. 
The scheme was amended slightly in 2015 to bring it in line with the new 2014 GBER. The scheme 
will continue until 2023.  
6. Statistics  
There are no statistics available which could contribute to the evaluation of t he effects of this aid 
scheme on WTO commerce and trade.  
7. Legal basis  
The Decree of 16 March 2012 on the economic support policy and its implementing decisions of the 
Flemish Government.  
8. Rules and conditions  
The scheme has been developed to provide aid to all enterprises, regardless of their size, for 
ecological investments. The enterprises qualifying for aid will receive a percentage of their eligible 
investment costs. This scheme must be seen as an extra pos sibility besides the before -mentioned 
EP+ scheme. Whereas the EP+ scheme works with a standard list of already approved and accepted 
technologies, the second strategic STRES scheme, focusses on new and innovative technologies 
which were not yet commonly ac cepted. As a rule, the strategical projects are larger and more 
challenging compared to the more basic approach of the EP+ scheme.  
The various Decisions of the Flemish Government and ministerial decrees can adapt the scheme 
towards other types of eligible cost, aid amounts or aid percentages.  
Depending on the type of investment (environmental protection, energy, renewals, etc.), various 
aid intensities are possible, within the maximum limits of the EU GBER.  
The scheme is open -ended, where every eligible c ase will receive aid. The maximum aid amount is 
EUR 1 million, and the aid intensity is set at 20 -40% of the extra costs.  
1.3 Decision of the Flemish Government of 17 July 2013 regarding strategic 
transformation aid for enterprises in the Flemish Region ( Strategic Transformation 
Support – STS) – SA.54202  
1. Form of aid  
The scheme puts the focus on the "transformation" aspects of new investments or training activities 
organized by enterprises. In order to be eligible for aid, the potential beneficiaries have to 
demonstrate that the foreseen investment or training contribu tes towards a new kind of investment 
or activity which is new or more elaborate for the enterprise and thus enabling the beneficiary to 
transform into a more efficient and stable enterprise, conform the New Industrial Policy of the 
Flemish Government.  
This scheme still contains 3 types of aid. It is on the one hand aimed at investment aid, both by 
SME's in the whole Flemish territory as for large enterprises in assisted areas of the 2014 -2020 
regional aid map, and on the other hand aimed at training aid for  SME's and large enterprises in the 
whole of the Flemish territory.  
In 2015 the scheme was amended slightly in order to bring in line with the new 2014 GBER.  G/SCM/N/372/EU/Add.2  
- 22 - 
  The aid is given in the form of a subsidy.  
2. Amount of aid in 2019 and 2020  
In 2019, a total of EU R 32,49 million was attributed to this type of aid (20,03 million to training aid, 
7,91 million to SME investment aid and 4,55 million to regional investment aid for large enterprises).  
In 2020, a total of EUR 27,33 million was attributed to this type of a id (9,44 million to training aid, 
13,74 million to SME investment aid and 4,15 million to regional investment aid for large 
enterprises).  
3. Objectives of the aid  
The regional aid part is aimed at the development of the lowest scoring areas within the Flemish  
Region and provides the Flemish Government with a strong tool for attracting (new) investors 
towards the assisted areas where the economic situation is less favourable than in the rest of the 
country and the European  Union.  
A potential beneficiary of the aid has to prove in a two -scenario approach which investments or 
training would be organized even without the aid, and which extra investments or training would be 
developed in the event of receiving aid. Only the cost of the extra investments or training,  going 
beyond what the beneficiary would invest anyway, is eligible. This will lead to lower aid amounts 
and less deadweight, leaving more of the budget available to grant in favour of new or extra 
investments.  
The investment aid for SMEs is in line with t he overall aim of reduction and reorientation of aid 
measures towards more horizontal objectives. The promotion of investments by SMEs is one of the 
best ways of ensuring that. The aid scheme aims at promoting entrepreneurship.  
The training aid part is als o in line with the overall aim of reduction and reorientation of aid measures 
towards more horizontal objectives. The promotion of training is a very good way of ensuring that. 
The aid benefits not only the beneficiaries but also the employees, as they acq uire more skills and 
competences which increase their value on the labour market.  
4. Time-frame  
The decision of the Flemish Government of 17 July 2013 is based upon the 2014 GBER and will 
continue until 2023.  
5. Statistics  
There are no statistics available whi ch could contribute to the evaluation of the effects of this aid 
scheme on WTO commerce and trade.  
6. Legal basis  
The Decree of 16 March 2012 on the economic support policy and its implementing decisions of the 
Flemish Government.  G/SCM/N/372/EU/Add.2  
- 23 - 
  7. Rules and conditions  
There are threshold of minimal eligible cost that have to be reached in order to qualify as a strategic 
project.  
For investment aid, a potential individual beneficiary should at least invest between EUR  1 and 
EUR 3 million  (depending of its siz e) or between EUR 3 and EUR 7 million for cooperating 
enterprises.  The standard aid intensity is set at 8% of the eligible costs. There is possible bonus of 
2% for projects that generate sufficient additional employment, setting the maximum aid intensity 
at 10%. The maximum aid amount for an individual beneficiary is EUR  1 million. That maximum is 
increased to EUR  1.25 million for cooperating beneficiaries.  
The training aid scheme has been developed to provide aid for SME's and large enterprises 
throughout Flemish territory for "strategic" or large training programmes. For training aid a potential 
individual beneficiary should at least invest between EUR 100,000 and EUR 300,000 (depending of 
its size) or between EUR 300,000 and EUR 700,000 for cooperating en terprises. The standard aid 
intensity is set at 20% of the eligible cost. There is possible bonus of 5% for projects that generate 
sufficient additional employment, setting the maximum aid intensity at 25%. The maximum aid 
amount for an individual benefici ary is EUR 1 million. That maximum is increased to EUR  1.25 million 
for cooperating beneficiaries.  
1.4 Decision of the Flemish Government of 3 July 2020 regarding strategic 
transformation aid for enterprises in the Flemish Region for the production of COVI D-19 
related products (Strategic Transformation Support COVID -19) – SA.57605  
1. Form of aid  
The scheme was based upon the EU Temporary Framework (TF) for Covid -19. Chapter 3.8 of the TF 
allows investment aid for the production of Covid -19 related investments.  
The aid regi me was notified and approved by the EU Commission. The aid is given in the form of a 
subsidy.  
2. Amount of aid in 2020  
In 2020, a total of EUR 4,54 million was attributed to this type of aid.  
3. Objectives of the aid  
The scheme aims at supporting undertakings th at are willing to start Covid -19 related investments, 
which are needed to overcome to acute needs for Covid -19 related products. This includes: medicinal 
products (including vaccines) and treatments, their intermediates, active pharmaceutical ingredients 
and raw materials; medical devices, hospital and medical equipment (including ventilators, 
protective clothing and equipment as well as diagnostic tools) and necessary raw materials; 
disinfectants and their intermediary products and raw chemical materials n ecessary for their 
production; data collection/processing tools.  
Up to 50% of the eligible costs can be supported.  
4. Time-frame  
The decision of the Flemish Government of 3 July 2020 is based upon the 2020 Covid -19 Temporary 
Framework and will continue until  the end of 2021.  
5. Statistics  
There are no statistics available which could contribute to the evaluation of the effects of this aid 
scheme on WTO commerce and trade.  G/SCM/N/372/EU/Add.2  
- 24 - 
  6. Legal basis  
The Decree of 16 March 2012 on the economic support policy and its implementing decisions of the 
Flemish Government.  
7. Rules and conditions  
The Covid -19 TF foresees a number of mandatory requirements regarding the eligible costs, 
maximum aid amount or percentage, exclusion of Undertakings in Difficulties, time -frame in whic h 
the investments have to be completed, time -frame to decide upon the applications.  
Next to those TF requirements, the aid scheme also follows closely the rules and conditions of the 
similar aid scheme (Strategic Transformation Support – STS – SA.54202) me ntioned above.  
2 AID TO ENTERPRISES – DECISION OF THE FLEMISH GOVERNMENT OF 
26 FEBRUARY  2016 REGARDING THE GRANTING OF AID TO SMALL AND MEDIUM -SIZED 
ENTERPRISES FOR ENTREPRENEURSHIP -ENCOURAGING SERVICES AND SME GROWTH 
SUBSIDY (SME  E WALLET + SME GROWTH SUBS IDY) – NO SA NUMBER ( DE MINIMIS ) 
1. Form of aid  
This scheme is aimed at SMEs and focusses on giving entrepreneurs financial aid in the purchase of 
training and advisory services. This aid regime is fully web -based and paperless. The a id is given in 
the form of a subsidy.  
2. Amount of aid in 2019 and 2020  
The total budget for this scheme in 2019 was EUR 75 million for the SME E -Wallet and 
EUR 12,12  million for the SME Growth Subsidy.  
The total budget for this scheme in 2020 was EUR 45 million for the SME E -Wallet and 
EUR 13,61  million for the SME Growth Subsidy.  
3. Objectives of the aid  
The Flemish Government agrees with the overall aim of reduction and reorientation of aid measures 
towards more horizontal objectives. The promotion of aid for SMEs in order to stimulate them to 
obtain specialized external advice or training is a positive element for the sustainability and results 
of the enterprises.  
4. Time-frame  
The decision of the Flemish Government of 26 February 2016 will continue until 2023.  
5. Statistics  
There are no statistics available which could contribute to the evaluation of the effects of this aid 
scheme on WTO commerce and trade.  
6. Legal basis  
The Decree of 16 March 2012 on the economic support policy and its implementing decisions of the 
Flemish Government.  
The decision of 26 February 2016 is based upon the EU "de -minimis" regulation 1407/2013 of 
18 December 2013 (OJ of 24 December 2013, L 352).  
7. Rules an d conditions  
There are 2 kinds of aid possible.  G/SCM/N/372/EU/Add.2  
- 25 - 
  1) SME e -wallet  
The beneficiary can buy training or consultancy services from an external, certified service provider. 
The aid is granted in the form of a subsidy. The maximum aid intensity is set at 20% of the eligible 
costs for a medium sized enterprise and at 30% for a small enterprise.  
The maximal aid amount per beneficiary is set at EUR 7,500 per year per enterprise. The maximal 
aid amount can be divided between several aid applications during one year.  
Certain costs regarding mandatory training or services are excluded, as are services that are 
continuous or periodic or relate to the undertaking's usual operating costs.  
2) SME growth subsidy  
A beneficiary that develops a SME growth project can receive a  subsidy. A SME growth project is 
considered as a (re)orientation roadmap to realise significant growth within the SME during a process 
of transformation, innovation or internationalisation. The Project has to be strategic, and has to lead 
to growth. It ha s to be irreversible and has to have a substantial impact on the internal processes 
of the undertaking. The beneficiaries can receive a subsidy for buying specialised consultancy from 
an external, certified service provider. The beneficiary can also decide  to hire a new employee with 
a strategic profile.  
The maximum aid intensity is set at 50%. The maximal aid amount per beneficiary is set at 
EUR 25,000  per year for both the strategic consultancy or for the employment of a new member of 
staff, resulting in  a total maximum aid amount of EUR 50,000.  
3 RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT – DECISION OF THE FLEMISH GOVERNMENT OF 
12 MAY 2017 REGARDING THE GRANTING OF AID TO ENTERPRISES FOR R&D WITH A 
KNOWLEDGE INTENSIVE CHARACTER IN FLANDERS (SA.49177) AND DECISION OF THE 
FLEMISH GOVERNMENT OF 12 MAY 2017 REGARDING THE GRANTING OF AID TO 
ENTERPRISES FOR DEVELOPMENT AND INNOVATION IN FLANDERS (SA.49178)  
1. Form of the aid  
Direct subsidies related to R&D projects proposed by enterprises in Flanders. The first scheme 
focusses on the more early stages ("knowledge intensive") of R&D and are called 
"Research  Projects". The second scheme focusses at project in the later stages of  development and 
innovation closer to the market and are called "development projects".  
2. Amount of aid in 2019 and 2020  
In 2019, a total of EUR 112,95 million was attributed to the knowledge intensive scheme, and 
EURO  104,92 million was attributed to the d evelopment projects.  
In 2020, a total of EUR 256,30 million was attributed to the knowledge intensive scheme, and 
EURO  157,55  million was attributed to the development projects.  
3. Objectives of the aid  
Research, development and innovation.  
4. Time-frame  
The aid  scheme started in 2018 and will continue until 2023.  
5. Statistics  
There are no statistics available which could contribute to the evaluation of the effects of this aid 
scheme on WTO commerce and trade.  G/SCM/N/372/EU/Add.2  
- 26 - 
  6. Legal basis 
The new decisions of 17 May 2017 were based  upon the Decree regarding the budget 2002, 
article  41ter, §2, as modified by decree of 20 November 2015. This change of legal bases was made 
upon the creation of a new Flemish Agency, Flanders Innovation & Entrepreneurship ("VLAIO") which 
is now competent  to grant all RDI aid to enterprises in Flanders.  
Both new decisions are based upon the RDI articles of the 2014 GBER.  
7. Rules and conditions  
1) Research project  
The knowledge intensive decision focusses on the more early stages of R&D. It is a s ubsidy for  
enterprises extending or reinforcing their research and development activities.  Specifically, this 
entails the agency giving subsidies for the implementation of individual projects by one or more 
companies. In doing so, the project starts with an innovative idea requiring new knowledge and 
whereby research and possibly development ac tivities must be carried out.  
The project must be substantial (aid amount demanded between 100,000 and 3 million euro). The 
eligible costs are staff and other costs related to the knowledge development phase in an innovation 
trajectory.  
The aid intensity can vary between 25 to 60% of the project budget.  
 2) Development project  
The development decisions or innovation decisions,  focus on subsidies for innovations that play a 
key role in achieving a business case that can strengthen the business of the beneficiaries.  
The project must be substantial (aid amount demanded between 25,000 and 3 million euro). The 
eligible costs are staff and other costs related to a development project.  
The aid intensity can vary between 25 to 50% of the project budget.  
4 AID FOR EMPLOYMENT – DECISION OF THE FLEMISH GOVERNMENT OF 10 JUNE 2016 
REGARDING THE EXECUTION OF THE DECREE OF 4 MARCH 2016 ON T HE FLEMISH POLICY 
ON TARGETTED GROUPS OF EMPLOYEES (FORMERLY DECISION OF 18 JULY 2008 
REGARDING THE PROFESSIONAL INTEGRATION OF PEOPLE WITH A DISABILITY )  
1. Form of the aid  
This scheme is aimed at providing employment aid, as defined by the EU Commission in the 
General  Block Exemption Regulation (GBER) No. 651/2014 of the European  Commission 
(OJ, 26/6/2014, L 187). The scheme was last notified to the Commission under number SA.53048. 
The aid is given in the form of a subsidy  
2. Amount of aid in 2019 and 2020  
In 2019: EUR 91,59 million.  
In 2020: EUR 82,67 million.  
3. Objectives of the aid  
The public employment service VDAB decides which persons with a disability have a right to this 
grant for an unlimited period or for a limited period. People are granted a right for  a limited period 
when their disability causes extra costs or a loss of production. When their situation can still 
progress, persons are granted a right for a limited period.  G/SCM/N/372/EU/Add.2  
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  The grant for persons with a right for a limited period is maximum 20% of the sa lary for a period of 
two years.  
The grant for persons with a right for an unlimited period gives employers an assurance  that they 
will be reimbursed with 40% of the salary in the first year, then with 30%, and then with 20% as 
from the fifth year. The gra nt is also based on the actual wage (with a maximum of up to the double 
of the minimum wage). The reason for this gradual approach is that an employer's costs come mainly 
at the beginning of the employment.  
After two years (grant for a limited period) or five years (grant for an unlimited period), the employer 
can ask for a prolongation of the grant. The employer must motivate this request. The experts of 
VDAB visit the workplace to assess the necessity of the grant (minimum 20% loss of production or 
extra costs compared to an employer without a disability).  
The integration of an employee with a disability often takes longer and working methods have to be 
adapted and tasks distributed, etc. It is possible for a grant higher than these basic amounts to be 
paid (up to 60%), but then the employer must demonstrate his real additional costs or loss of 
production. The experts of VDAB visit the working place to assess the necessity of this increase of 
the grant.  
The regulations also provide for a simplified applic ation for contributions for adapting 
equipment,  purchasing adapted tools, employing interpreters and paying moving or  accommodation 
costs.  
4. Duration of the programme  
The scheme was renotified  and prolonged according to the 2014 GBER and is now valid until the end 
of 2023.  
5. Statistical data  
The aim of the aid is to enhance the labour participation of people with disabilities. The impact is  thus 
mainly on employment in very diverse sectors. Ther e are no statistical data available that would 
make it possible to assess  its effects on world trade.  
In 2019, 18535 persons received an integration premium grant.  
In 2020, 16919 persons received an integration premium grant . 
6. Legal basis  
The decision of th e Flemish Government of 10 June 2016 regarding the execution of the decree of 
4 March  2016 on the Flemish policy on targeted groups of employees (formerly decision of 
18 July 2008).  
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