While large companies are leading the way in AI adoption in Belgium, small and medium-sized enterprises are lagging behind, highlighting the widening technological gap in the business environment.
Belgium ranks among the top five countries in Europe for the business use of AI, with more than a third of companies currently using at least one AI technology.
According to the latest Belgian Digital Economy Overview, 34.54% of Belgian companies reported using AI in 2025, up from 24.71% in 2024. This figure is significantly higher than the European average of 19.95%.
Deployment varies greatly depending on company size. More than 76% of large enterprises are already using AI technology, compared to just over 28% of small and medium-sized enterprises.
Some of the most common business applications include text analysis, content creation (written or audio), machine learning, and workflow automation. Companies primarily use AI for administrative and administrative processes, accounting and finance, and marketing and sales.
The use of AI is also increasing among individuals. In 2025, 33.53% of Belgians used generative AI tools for personal use, compared to the European average of 25.09%.
Digitalization Minister Vanessa Mats said Belgium should build momentum with a consistent strategy to strengthen expertise, support talent, improve access to European technological capabilities and build trust.
He also stressed that the development of AI must take place within a clear, protective and inclusive framework that respects privacy, prevents bias and avoids increasing inequality.
Why is it important?
The spread of AI in Belgium shows that adoption in business is no longer limited to experimentation, especially among large companies. Disparities between large and small firms are also important, as uneven adoption can widen productivity differences within an economy. The policy challenge is to support the broader use of AI while building safeguards around privacy, bias, skills, and inclusion.
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