Belgium's trade mission to China

Belgium's trade missionto China is a governmental initiative designed to strengthen economic ties between Belgium and the People's Republic of China. Headquartered in Belgium, the mission serves as a platform for Belgian companies seeking to explore market opportunities in China. It organizes business delegations, matchmaking events, and promotional activities that connect Belgian exporters, investors, and innovators with Chinese partners. The mission also provides information on regulatory environments, market trends, and potential collaboration sectors. By bringing together government officials and private‑sector representatives, it aims to foster sustainable trade and investment flows.

In November 2019 the mission was the target of a significant cyberattack that was attributed to Chinese sources. During the incident attackers launched approximately 135 bot‑driven attacks per hour, far above typical threat levels observed from the region. The delegation had taken preparatory steps such as issuing disposable mobile devices and conducting security briefings, while cybersecurity experts monitored the situation in real time. Attackers employed bots and attempted to install spyware designed to harvest sensitive political data, passwords, and proprietary product information. Security personnel used honey‑pot techniques to analyse the attackers’ methods, which reinforced suspicions of state‑linked involvement. Prior warnings from Belgian authorities about such threats had prompted the defensive measures that were in place. Some participating companies were later assessed to have underestimated the risks despite the precautions taken.