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International expansion

Is your market potential growing beyond national borders? International expansion offers opportunities, but also new rules, cultures and risks. Think of VAT rules, permanent establishments, customs formalities or local labour legislation. Good preparation prevents international growth from becoming a source of frustration. Which structure should you choose? How can you avoid double taxation? And how should you organise your reporting? This will enable you to leverage international business rather than letting it become an obstacle.

Recognizable situations

Situations you recognize, answers that help you move forward.

Whether it concerns investments in additional markets, local branches or knowledge & technology, international expansion requires a well-thought-out financing strategy. How you approach this depends on your situation and the pace at which you want to expand. Traditional bank financing, external investors, subsidies or even collaborations with local partners are possible options. 

Cross-border growth usually involves additional complexity. It is therefore important that your financing choice takes into account the local context and rules, your strategy and the financial strength of your company. What risks are you taking? How quickly do you expect a return? And how much control do you want to retain? By substantiating your plans well and drawing up a solid financial plan in good time, you increase your chances of success and the interest of investors or banks.

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Wim Ost
Wim Ost
Partner Corporate Finance | Debt & Equity Funding
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As soon as you operate internationally, you will have to deal with foreign legislation on data processing. This includes privacy rules such as the GDPR in Europe, but also local data legislation in, for example, the US or Asian countries. Each region has different priorities: what is permitted in Belgium may be prohibited elsewhere or subject to additional obligations. Compliance goes beyond a legal tick box. It affects your reputation, customer trust and continuity. What customer data do you collect, where is it stored and who has access to it? 

A well-thought-out data strategy ensures that you comply with the rules without hindering the operation of your business. If in doubt, seek assistance from experts with knowledge of local legislation.

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Sam Kwanten
Partner Audit
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A foreign branch adds extra complexity. You will have to deal with different accounting rules, VAT regimes, currencies and reporting requirements. To keep a grip on your figures, it is crucial to organise your financial administration properly from the outset — preferably according to a standardised system that allows for local needs and central control. 

Will you opt for a local accountant, an internal team or central management from Belgium? Whatever you decide, make sure you have clear agreements on deadlines, reporting and internal controls. Regular consolidation and transparency are essential for timely adjustments. International growth requires flexibility, but also structure. A well-designed financial process prevents surprises.

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Raf Uyttenbroeck
Raf Uyttenbroeck
Managing Partner Moore Financial Consulting
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Are you thinking about an international acquisition to grow your family business? Then thorough preparation is essential. In addition to analysing the target company, you’ll need to take into account local legislation, tax regulations and cultural differences. This requires specialised guidance and a multidisciplinary perspective.

With an experienced team that understands cross-border transactions, you can avoid surprises and strengthen your negotiating position. Also think ahead about integration: how will you align systems, people and processes into one strong organisation? An international acquisition is complex, but with the right support, it can become a strategic step forward.

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Wannes Gheysen
Partner Corporate Finance | Mid-market M&A
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Are you at a strategic turning point?

Whether you want to grow, internationalise, digitise or transfer, we are happy to think along with you. Contact us and discover how we can support the growth of your business.