Belgium’s business confidence barometer rose by 1.2 points to -13.5 in May 2025 from -14.7 in April.
Confidence in the trade sector rebounded significantly (-10.9 vs. -17), driven by notably stronger demand expectations and an expected increases in orders to suppliers.
The building industry also showed a clear recovery (-7.5 vs. -13.1), supported by firmer order books and more optimistic demand forecasts.
Confidence in business-related services edged up slightly to -9 from -9.3, reflecting improved outlooks for future activity and overall market demand.
Meanwhile, confidence in manufacturing remained unchanged at -16.1.