On this special day, we not only look to the past, but also to the future, with an emphasis on scientific and technological advances that position the country as a benchmark in innovation.
Belgium is home to IMECthe prestigious research center located in Leuvenwhich has established itself as a global reference in microelectronics and nanotechnology. Founded in 1982, IMEC has managed to partner with technology giants such as Intel, Samsung and TSMCwhich has allowed it to remain at the forefront of semiconductor research.
Recently, it has achieved a historic investment of 25 billion euros to develop a new production line for microchips measuring less than two nanometers, the most advanced in the world. This project, which receives both public and private financing, is part of the ambitious “Chips Act” European, which seeks to guarantee the technological sovereignty of Europe against other global powers. This pilot line, which has the support of the Flemish government, the European Commission and key technology companies such as ASMLwill ensure that Belgium continues to lead in the next generation of micro-electronic technologies.
Advances in semiconductors are crucial not only for the development of consumer technology, such as mobile phones and computers, but also for critical applications in the automotive, artificial intelligence and defense. Belgium is positioned as a strategic axis within the European high-tech ecosystem, promoting economic growth and job creation.
Advances in renewable energy and sustainability
The transition towards a more sustainable future is another of Belgium’s great achievements. The country has made significant investments in renewable energy, and its ability to innovate in this sector is reflected in the growing number of bioenergy and wind energy projects. Currently, Belgium has two large biomass plants that generate green electricity, with expansion plans underway. However, the commitment of Belgium with renewable energies is not limited to its borders.
Through the Société Belge d’Investissement pour les pays en Développement (BIO)Belgium has invested significantly in energy projects in low- and middle-income countries. These projects include solar and wind farms in countries such as Senegal, Nicaragua and Indiaas well as a geothermal plant in Africa and a hydroelectric plant in Nepal. In 2019, energy projects supported by BIO managed to avoid the emission of 1,488 million tons of CO2, a significant contribution to the fight against climate change.
Furthermore, Belgium is committed to developing advanced energy infrastructure within its own borders. The country has made a strong commitment to the expansion of offshore wind energyparticularly in the Princess Elisabeth area, so that Belgium It is one of the main producers of off-shore energy worldwide. In 2023, approximately 8 TWh was produced from off-shore wind, corresponding to the annual electricity demand of almost 2.3 million households, or 10.2% of the country’s total electricity demand. Belgium is also working to develop more sustainable energy networks, including the incorporation of hydrogen as an energy source and the infrastructure for electric vehicles.
The rise of the biotechnology and pharmaceutical sector
The pharmaceutical and biotechnology sector is another of the main drivers of the Belgian economy. Belgium It is home to some of the world’s largest pharmaceutical giants, such as UCB, Pfizer, Janssen Pharmaceuticals and GSKcompanies that not only produce medicines and vaccines, but are also at the forefront of research and development (R&D) in biotechnology. This sector is vital for the Belgian economy, representing more than 15% of the country’s exports.
In 2023, exports of medicines and vaccines reached 78,000 million eurosmaking Belgium one of the largest exporters of pharmaceutical products worldwide.
Furthermore, Belgian pharmaceutical companies invest more than €15 million daily in R&D, a spectacular increase of 584% in the last five years. These investments have allowed Belgium to play a crucial role in the fight against global pandemics and in researching innovative therapies.
In addition, the country has been key in the global response to recent health crises. Belgium has donated thousands of doses of vaccines to combat diseases such as Mpox and actively participates in international initiatives for the production of vaccines in disadvantaged regions, including projects in Africa.
Innovation in the automotive industry
The automobile industry in Belgium was traditionally an important industrial sector, and in the 1990s more than 1.2 million vehicles were produced per year.
During the last decades, the industrial activity related to this sector has been changing with more and more focus on the design, innovation and development of technologies related to hybrid, electric and autonomous vehicles.
These advances not only position the country as a key player in the evolution of transportationbut also contribute to reducing emissions and meeting European climate objectives.
Belgium also plays an important role in the international logistics of the automotive supply chain, the port of Zeebruggeis the largest vehicle transit center in the world, handling millions of cars a year.
In it King’s Day, While celebrating Belgium’s rich cultural and historical heritage, it is essential to also recognize its role as a leader in innovation, education and sustainability.
From technological advances in semiconductors and renewable energy to cutting-edge research in biotechnology, Belgium continues to lead the way towards a brighter, more sustainable future. In this context, the country not only establishes itself as a key player on the European stage, but also reinforces its global impact in sectors critical to the development of the 21st century.
Source: Ambito
I am Pierce Boyd, a driven and ambitious professional working in the news industry. I have been writing for 24 Hours Worlds for over five years, specializing in sports section coverage. During my tenure at the publication, I have built an impressive portfolio of articles that has earned me a reputation as an experienced journalist and content creator.
