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Our advisers abroad

Economic and commercial advisors (CECs) are trusted partners who support Walloon companies in their commercial expansion abroad by promoting their strengths on international markets in a targeted way. They combine commercial diplomacy, strategic influence and tailored support to help Walloon companies conquer new markets and forge lasting partnerships abroad.

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CEC mission

More than 80 economic and commercial representation posts are spread over 5 continents. Our CECs are responsible for representing Wallonia on the international stage, providing information, monitoring and advice on foreign markets, market research, prospecting assistance, assisting companies in the field, etc.

Competitive and technological intelligence
Support for setting up an office abroad
Trade fairs and individual and group missions
Market research and market penetration strategy
Marketing, commercial and strategic partnerships
Personalised advice and coaching, cultural approach

All over the world

More than 80 CECs to help you

Our teams are present on every continent to provide you with practical, personalised support for your international business.

Wherever you want to export, our Economic and Commercial Advisors (ECAs) are your key contacts on the ground. Present in more than 90 offices abroad, they provide you with information on local markets, open up their network of contacts to you and support you in your sales and set-up procedures.
Their mission: to save you time, secure your choices and maximise your chances of international success through local human support.

Contact a CEC

Meet a CEC

At Business Days

These days give you the opportunity to talk directly to our advisers and prepare your international projects effectively.

Business Days are essential for accelerating your international projects. In one or two days, you can meet our economic and commercial advisors (CEC).

It’s an opportunity to draw up a practical export action plan, make qualified contacts and raise your profile in your priority markets. Thanks to these direct exchanges, you can save time and maximise your international development opportunities.

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See our CECs in pictures

Why contact an economic and business advisor?

1

Detecting new opportunities

Targeted identification of trusted business partners, distributors and high-potential prospects.

2

Analyzing and conquering target markets

Once the diagnosis has been carried out, the company receives a personalised support programme (PAP), including the non-financial and financial services offered based on the results of the diagnosis.

3

Strengthening international presence

Support in preparing for and taking part in trade fairs, individual and group missions and B2B prospecting actions.

4

Building strategic connections

Networking, institutional lobbying and economic diplomacy to serve Walloon business interests.

Discover CEC in video

VideoCEC presentation

PodcastThe role of a CEC at AWEX

FAQ

What types of services do the Economic and Commercial Counselors offer to businesses?

The Economic and Commercial Counselors offer a wide range of services:

searching for commercial or technological partners;
market research and advice on accessing the local market;
support for trade fairs, missions and B2B prospecting;
assistance with visibility and commercial networking;
support for innovation and market intelligence.

Economic and Commercial Counselors - What is the role of Wallonia Export & Investment Agency (AWEX)’s Economic and Commercial Counselor ?

The Economic and Commercial Counselors represent and defend Wallonia’s economic and commercial interests abroad. As veritable ambassadors of Walloon expertise, they support businesses in their international development, facilitate local commercial contacts and promote the region’s economic image. They are also tasked with identifying and attracting investment projects to Wallonia, positioning our Region as a highly effective, attractive and competitive destination for potential foreign investors.

How do I get in touch with an Wallonia Export & Investment Agency Economic and Commercial Counselor ?

What is the difference between an Area Manager and an Economic and Commercial Counselor ?

This is a crucial distinction:

The Area Manager is based in Belgium. They define the overall strategy, advise you at the outset and validate the suitability of your project for their area.
The Economic and Commercial Counselor is based abroad (in the target country). They act as your “eyes and ears” on the ground, providing accurate local information, lists of potential customers and logistical support during your visits.

Internationally

Contact our CECs

Select a country

Why contact an advisor?

Competitive and technology intelligence
Sourcing
Networking
Support for setting up a foreign office
Individual and group trade fairs and missions
Market research and market penetration strategy
Marketing, commercial and strategic partnerships
Consulting, cultural approach
Lead detection

Work with other AWEX experts

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Our local contacts

Your local contact point for becoming an AWEX customer and accessing all our services.

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Our sector experts

Business specialists who can help you succeed internationally thanks to their in-depth sector expertise and targeted strategies tailored to your sector and international markets.

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