Belgium's total subsidies for fossil fuels amounted to 15.2 billion euros in 2024, a decrease from 17.86 billion euros in 2022, according to new government data. The decline is mainly attributed to lower natural gas consumption and reduced use of fuel cards, but experts warn it does not reflect a structural shift away from fossil fuel support.
Direct subsidies, including tax breaks for company cars and professional diesel, fell to 10.78 billion euros from 13.3 billion euros in 2022. Indirect subsidies, international shipping and aviation, and company car benefits brought the total to over 15 billion euros.
The transport sector received the largest share of direct subsidies at 6.36 billion euros, followed by buildings (4.65 billion euros) and industry (3.15 billion euros). The main subsidy remains the favorable tax treatment of various energy products, which lowers excise duties on fossil fuels.
