The Belgian federation of trade and services, Comeos, has welcomed the deal reached by the "Arizona" negotiators as “the best government agreement in the past 20 years.”
Comeos is particularly pleased with the plan for a “genuine labour market reform,” which it describes as “crucial for the growth of the commercial sector in Belgium.”
CEO Dominique Michel highlighted that night work will now begin at midnight instead of 20:00. “We have long requested to correct this absurd situation and we are pleased it is finally happening,” Michel said.
He also noted that easing the legislation on store opening hours and allowing students to work more hours will contribute to essential flexibility for the growth of the sector.
The government agreement includes raising the cap on student working hours to 650 hours from the current 475. The tax ceiling will be lifted to €12,000.
Comeos is also pleased that the new coalition is addressing cross-border shopping. The government plans to reduce packaging taxes on products significantly more expensive than those in neighbouring countries.
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Taxes on packaging, such as water and reusable containers, will be reduced, and excise duties on sugar-free drinks, tea, and coffee will be eliminated.
Lastly, the federation welcomes the future government’s measures to facilitate donations of food and non-food products. “Currently, it is often more beneficial for retailers to destroy unsold products rather than donate them. This issue will finally be addressed, and the list of products that can be donated is being expanded.”
