Tax Bites Podcast – European Tax Omnibus proposal
The European Commission’s proposal for a Tax Omnibus Directive has been leaked ahead of its official publication later this month. The Tax Omnibus Directive aims to simplify the EU direct tax framework, reduce compliance costs for businesses and, ultimately, improve the EU’s competitiveness. To that end, it proposes to amend six existing direct tax directives in
New Program Law introduces cap on wage withholding tax exemptions and tightens night and shift work definitions
The federal government’s new Program Law, voted on 28/05/2026, introduces significant changes to the wage withholding tax (WHT) exemption regime. As the government seeks to close the budgetary gap and consolidate public finances, the WHT exemptions — long regarded as a cornerstone of Belgian employer incentives — are being curtailed. Two measures stand out: a
Tax bites podcast – CBAM Unpacked: What it is and why it matters now
Welcome to the first episode of our new Tax Bites mini-series dedicated to the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) and the broader EU carbon taxation landscape. In this opening episode, Pieter sits down with our CBAM experts, Helena and Aurélien to set the stage: how does CBAM fit into the wider EU Green Deal and
EU Commission publishes guidance on the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR)
On 30 March 2026, the European Commission published a guidance document and an accompanying set of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on the implementation of the Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) (Regulation (EU) 2025/40). These documents aim to facilitate the uniform application of the new packaging rules across the EU and to simplify compliance for economic operators and Member States. Background The
New law providing various provisions – Key tax changes adopted by the Chamber
On 11 December 2025, after extensive discussions within the Finance Commission, the Chamber adopted the draft law providing various provisions. This legislation encompasses both corporate and personal income tax measures, alongside significant updates to tax procedures. From a corporate tax perspective, here are the key measures adopted: The “Sicav RDT / DBI Bevek” regime remains applicable, but a 5% tax will
Wage withholding tax exemption – New circular letter provides an update on the partial wage withholding tax exemption for night and shift work
Context On 31 July 2025, the Minister of Finance released a long-anticipated circular letter detailing significant updates to the partial wage withholding tax exemption for night and shift work. The introduction of the Bis Variant, coupled with recent case law, contributed to increased complexity, and varied interpretations of certain regulations, leading to uncertainty among applicants.
Innovating healthcare and the health industry
In the 200-page government agreement, a significant number of pages focus on measures to ensure an innovating healthcare. Many of the measures taken are particularly relevant for the health industry. The coalition agreement presented by the new federal government sets a promising stage for the pharmaceutical, biotech and more in general the health industry in
Update regarding the Energy-Saving Investment Deduction: Attention for all companies claiming the Energy-Saving Investment Deduction with respect to investments made in the Flemish region: due date postponed
Companies investing in fixed assets used for more rational energy consumption, improving industrial processes for energy reasons and for energy recovery in industry, may qualify for a tax benefit through the Energy-Saving Investment Deduction. In order to claim the Energy-Saving Investment Deduction, a certificate should be obtained from the competent Administration of the Region where
