At a time when regulations are constantly changing and governments are demanding more transparency and responsibility from companies, corporate compliance is an absolute must – not only to avoid penalties, but to make your company both dependable as a commercial partner and forward-looking.
At Grant Thornton Belgium, we support companies in achieving systematic, accurate compliance with their legal obligations. Our approach is all about ensuring clarity, efficiency and complete peace of mind.
What is corporate compliance?
Corporate compliance refers to systematically meeting all legal, regulatory and statutory obligations to which a company and its directors are subject. This goes beyond merely obeying the rules – it means implementing a way of working that limits risks, promotes transparency and ensures the continuity of your company.
Specifically, corporate compliance includes:
- The publication of accurate information in the Annexes to the Belgian Official Gazette within the deadlines for doing so;
- Up-to-date articles of association and corporate structures in accordance with the Companies and Associations Code;
- Complying with management and shareholder formalities;
- Registering information in the UBO register;
- Ensuring accurate data in the Crossroads Bank for Enterprises (CBE), including address and activity codes;
- Correct and transparent contracts in business relationships.
It is a continuous process that requires expertise, discipline and monitoring.
Why is corporate compliance so important?
An error or omission can quickly lead to legal problems, fines or reputational damage. For example, failure to comply with publication obligations in the event of a change of articles of association or change of management can have consequences for:
- The legal validity of decisions taken;
- The liability of directors;
- Access to funding (banks often request recently published documents).
Example: publications in the Annexes to the Belgian Official Gazette
When changes occur within your company – such as the resignation and/or appointment of directors or a change of address – publication in the Annexes to the Belgian Official Gazette is mandatory.
The following information must be filed with the court registry:
- The original signed minutes of the company’s competent body;
- An original signed letter of resignation from a director (if a director resigns rather than being dismissed[A1] );
- A copy of the identity card (front and back) of directors (whether resigning, newly appointed or reappointed);
- A declaration that the director you wish to appoint is not subject to a management ban;
Original signed publication forms.
The absence of a single document can lead to the refusal of the publication file, delays or even extra costs. What’s more, it can have legal consequences if a change is not publicised (or not done so in time).
Current developments in compliance
- Municipal mergers (from 1 January 2025)
28 Flemish municipalities have merged. Company addresses may change as a result. If they are not shown correctly in the CBE, publication may be required. Publication costs can be avoided with a municipal certificate.
- New NACEBEL codes
The updated activity codes have been in force since 2025. If the codes in the CBE no longer correspond to your activities or your object as set out in the articles of association, updates – and possibly amendments to the articles of association – are required.
Our approach: ensuring legal peace of mind
At Grant Thornton Belgium, we take corporate compliance seriously and are ready to give you comprehensive support.
The following are among the services we can offer you:
- Legal analysis and advice
Working out what your obligations are and how you can meet them efficiently.
- Commercial toolbox
Analysing your contracts, general terms and conditions and business agreements for legal risks.
- Administrative monitoring
Ensuring the preparation of minutes, timely publications and the updating of data in the CBE or the UBO register.
Looking for legal peace of mind and security?
Corporate compliance is more than an obligation: it’s a fundamental building block of doing business professionally. Meeting all the requirements properly allows you to build a stable and credible organisation.
Contact us today and let Grant Thornton Belgium’s Legal Team assist you. We will support you with expertise, clear communication and maximum peace of mind.
