Overview

The Belgian market for security equipment is largely an import market, where approximately 90% of the equipment is imported from neighboring countries.  Only very special and customized products and safety apparel are manufactured locally. Direct sales are still the main channel for products that require consulting, although E-trade is getting foothold.  With the strong industry clusters such as petro-chemicals, food, the building and construction industry and pharmaceutical research centers, the Belgian market for safety equipment and safety apparel is a relatively mature market worth $ 450 million.

Revenue in the smart home security services segment is projected to reach US$52m in 2021.  Revenue is expected to show an annual growth rate (CAGR 2021-2025) of 11.02%, resulting in a projected market volume of US$79m by 20245.  Household penetration will be 7.6% in 2021and is expected to hit 13.5% by 2025.  The average revenue per installed Smart Home currently is expected to amount to US$138,08. (https://www.statista.com/outlook/281/129/security/belgium)

The market for electronic detection systems, such as fire detection, camera monitoring, burglary prevention and access control is considered as growing.  A stronger interest is noticed for technology that can facilitate the task of security service providers.  The increased attention to terrorism and drugs trafficking seems to be a catalyst for growth in high tech security equipment and installation services.  Since the regulation on drones took effect there is a noticeable and increased interest in the use of UAV within security environment but also in anti-UAV’s equipment and detection devices. 

Selling into this market requires a specialized partner, with good business connections and a track record in the security sector.  Most contracts are tenders, and call for extensive product testing and demonstrations, which can only be achieved with a permanent local presence, and a good understanding of the decision-making process (which can be slow).  Agents are often used for highly specialized technical equipment.

Distributors are the main sales channel for standard equipment which may require in-country servicing and emergency stocks.  Ad-hoc partnerships with systems integrators and general contractors are often used for project-based supplies and services.

The scope of the market for security services is defined by the law from January 13, 2014.  The installation and use of camera systems for policing are strictly regulated by the law on cameras published on March 21st, 2007, all other systems follow the regulation of the Belgian and European privacy law.

Belgian authorities developed an extensive legislative framework on workplace safety, mainly to protect workers and employees from safety risks.  This legislation is bundled in the general regulations on labor protection, the so called “A.R.A.B.”  Belgium also applied EU Directive 89/686 on personal protective equipment.  Very recently this directive has been followed with the enactment 2016/425 which adapts the existing regulation to the current market situation.