## [International expansion](/en/key-moments/transformation-strategy/international-expansion)

 ### Recognizable situations

Situations you recognize, answers that help you move forward.

###   How do I finance the international growth of my company?   

 

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.

#### Contact our experts:

 ![Wim Ost](/sites/default/files/styles/ratio_1_1/public/2021-03/Wim%20Ost_Moore_1.jpg?h=0dd7be3b&itok=iyXPTPB8 "Wim Ost")

Wim Ost

Partner Corporate Finance | Debt & Equity Funding

 

 [Contact](/en/contact) 

 

 

#### Relevant services:

 [Corporate Finance](/en/services/corporate-finance) 

 

 

 

 

 



###   What compliance rules apply to data when expanding internationally?   

 

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.

#### Contact our experts:

 ![Male_Avatar](/sites/default/files/styles/ratio_1_1/public/2025-05/Male_Avatar.jpg?h=a141e9ea&itok=uNCg4bIT)

Sam Kwanten

Partner Audit & Assurance

 

 [Contact](/en/contact) 

 

 

#### Relevant services:

 [Audit & Assurance](/en/services/audit-assurance) 

 

 

 

 

 



###   How do I manage my financial administration for foreign subsidiaries?   

 

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.

#### Contact our experts:

 ![Raf Uyttenbroeck](/sites/default/files/styles/ratio_1_1/public/2023-01/Raf%20Uyttenbroeck_Moore_1.jpg?h=c5ad9765&itok=yw7GpSRf "Raf Uyttenbroeck")

Raf Uyttenbroeck

Managing Partner Financial Consultants

 

 [Contact](/en/contact) 

 

 

#### Relevant services:

 [Finance & Accounting](/en/services/finance-accounting) 

 

 

 

 

 



###   I’m considering an acquisition abroad: how should I approach it?   

 

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.

#### Contact our experts:

 ![Wannes Gheysen](/sites/default/files/styles/ratio_1_1/public/2026-04/Wannes%20Gheysen_4486HR.jpg?h=dc1ae8ce&itok=HWhLLmQp "Wannes Gheysen")

Wannes Gheysen

Managing Partner Corporate Finance

 

 [Contact](/en/contact) 

 

 

#### Relevant services:

 [Corporate Finance](/en/services/corporate-finance) 

 

 

 

 

 



###   Which tax obligations apply when expanding abroad?   

 

When you expand internationally, you are confronted with different tax regimes. These may include corporate income tax, VAT, withholding taxes or transfer pricing rules. In many cases, reporting obligations also apply in the foreign jurisdiction.

Proper preparation helps prevent double taxation and penalties. Map out your structure, activities and transaction flows, and seek guidance from advisors with expertise in international tax law.

#### Contact our experts:

 ![Glenn Luxem](/sites/default/files/styles/ratio_1_1/public/2026-01/Glenn%20Luxem_1088HR.jpg?h=12f06099&itok=-0aD_aE5)

Glenn Luxem

Director Tax & Legal

 

 [Contact](/en/contact) 

 

 

#### Relevant services:

 [Tax & Legal Services](/en/services/tax-legal-services) 

 

 

 

 

 



###   Which tax obligations apply in Belgium for foreign companies?   

 

Foreign companies with activities in Belgium may become subject to Belgian taxation, for example in the case of a permanent establishment or employees working on Belgian soil. Specific obligations also apply regarding VAT registration or payroll reporting.

Seek advice in advance on Belgian tax rules and how to ensure compliance. This helps you avoid disputes with the tax authorities and ensures a correct and efficient operation in Belgium.

#### Contact our experts:

 ![Glenn Luxem](/sites/default/files/styles/ratio_1_1/public/2026-01/Glenn%20Luxem_1088HR.jpg?h=12f06099&itok=-0aD_aE5)

Glenn Luxem

Director Tax & Legal

 

 [Contact](/en/contact) 

 

 

#### Relevant services:

 [Tax & Legal Services](/en/services/tax-legal-services) 

 

 

 

 

 



###   How do I build a successful international market strategy?   

 

A successful international market strategy starts with a thorough analysis of your target markets. Research local regulations, competition, customer behavior, and cultural differences to align your offering and positioning accordingly. Then choose the right market approach, such as exporting, local partnerships, or establishing your own presence.

It is also important to align your operational and financial structure so you can respond flexibly to growth and manage risks effectively. By regularly evaluating and adjusting your strategy, you increase your chances of long-term success. Would you like to grow internationally with a well-thought-out approach? Get guidance and take targeted steps toward new markets.

#### Contact our experts:

 ![Joris VandenBerghe](/sites/default/files/styles/ratio_1_1/public/2022-06/Joris%20VandenBerghe_Quote_Moore.png?h=c9f93661&itok=9XhBPSHD "Joris VandenBerghe")

Joris VandenBerghe

Managing Partner Management Consulting

 

 [Contact](/en/contact) 

 

 

#### Relevant services:

 [Advisory](/en/services/advisory) 

 

 

 

 

 



###   Which operational adjustments are needed for an international expansion?   

 

When expanding internationally, various operational adjustments are often required. This includes aligning your processes with local regulations, adapting your logistics and supply chain, and providing local support, such as staff or partners. Your IT systems and reporting also often need to be adapted to the new market.

In addition, language, culture, and customer expectations play an important role in your day-to-day operations. By preparing your organization accordingly, you increase efficiency and the chances of a successful expansion. Would you like to operationally support your international growth? Get guidance and make the right decisions from the start.

#### Contact our experts:

 ![Joris VandenBerghe](/sites/default/files/styles/ratio_1_1/public/2022-06/Joris%20VandenBerghe_Quote_Moore.png?h=c9f93661&itok=9XhBPSHD "Joris VandenBerghe")

Joris VandenBerghe

Managing Partner Management Consulting

 

 [Contact](/en/contact) 

 

 

#### Relevant services:

 [Advisory](/en/services/advisory) 

 

 

 

 

 



###   What are the tax and legal risks and opportunities of cross-border acquisitions?   

 

Cross-border acquisitions involve both tax and legal risks and opportunities. These include differences in tax regimes, possible double taxation, transfer pricing, and the impact of international structures on your tax position. At the same time, optimization opportunities may be available, depending on how the acquisition is structured.

From a legal perspective, local legislation, contractual obligations, employment law, and liability all play an important role. Due diligence and proper structuring are also crucial to limit risks and take advantage of opportunities. Do you want to avoid surprises and structure the acquisition optimally? Have your acquisition thoroughly analyzed and make a well-founded decision.

#### Contact our experts:

 ![Lien De Vleeschouwer](/sites/default/files/styles/ratio_1_1/public/2023-01/Lien%20De%20Vleeschouwer_Moore_1.jpg?h=888ea63d&itok=hZX49qIR "Lien De Vleeschouwer")

Lien De Vleeschouwer

Partner Tax & Legal Services

 

 [Contact](/en/contact) 

 

 

#### Relevant services:

 [Tax & Legal Services](/en/services/tax-legal-services) 

 

 

 

 

 



###   My shareholder is a foreign group: what does this mean for my governance and what are my obligations in Belgium?   

 

When your shareholder is a foreign group, this may affect the way your company is governed. Strategic decisions are often aligned at group level, and reporting obligations or guidelines from the parent company may apply. However, your Belgian company remains subject to Belgian company law, and directors must exercise their mandate independently and in the best interests of the company.

In addition, you must continue to comply with all Belgian legal obligations, such as holding general meetings, filing annual accounts, and complying with tax and legal requirements. Transactions within the group must also be properly documented and carried out on arm’s length terms. Want to make sure your governance structure is set up correctly? Have your situation analyzed and avoid unnecessary risks.

#### Contact our experts:

 ![Lien De Vleeschouwer](/sites/default/files/styles/ratio_1_1/public/2023-01/Lien%20De%20Vleeschouwer_Moore_1.jpg?h=888ea63d&itok=hZX49qIR "Lien De Vleeschouwer")

Lien De Vleeschouwer

Partner Tax & Legal Services

 

 [Contact](/en/contact) 

 

 

#### Relevant services:

 [Tax & Legal Services](/en/services/tax-legal-services) 

 

 

 

 

 



 



 

 

 

  ### Other important moments

 

These topics will help you think, plan and grow further



 

 

### Other important moments

These topics will help you think, plan and grow further



 



- ###  [ Digital transformation & automation ](/en/key-moments/transformation-strategy/digital-transformation-automation) 
    
    Read more
- ###  [ Mergers, acquisitions and transfers ](/en/key-moments/transformation-strategy/mergers-acquisitions-and-transfers) 
    
    Read more
- ###  [ Growth capital and financial structuring ](/en/key-moments/transformation-strategy/growth-capital-and-financial-structuring) 
    
    Read more
- ###  [ Innovation & sustainability ](/en/key-moments/transformation-strategy/innovation-sustainability) 
    
    Read more
- ###  [ Strategy determination ](/en/key-moments/transformation-strategy/strategy-determination) 
    
    Read more
 
 



 



 

 

 

 

 ### 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.

 

 [ Contact us  ](/en/contact)

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