In 2026, CETA is opening new doors to Canada for Brussels SMEs, with lower tariffs and fast-growing opportunities. Yet, limited resources and knowledge gaps can still make the first step difficult. That is where the Enterprise Europe Network (EEN) steps in, turning market access into real international growth.
CETA (the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement) is a landmark treaty designed to facilitate business between the EU and Canada by eliminating trade barriers and aligning regulatory standards. While it is designed to provide opportunities for Brussels SMEs, it does not guarantee that they will begin exporting and become successful in a new market. Despite the existence of this type of agreement, companies still face challenges when doing business abroad, as noted by the European Parliament. Following the implementation of the CETA, these challenges could still affect SMEs’ ability to internationalize in 2026. The practical realization of these opportunities coming from CETA may require further assistance. Institutions such as Enterprise Europe Network (EEN, active in Brussels through Beci) could become necessary in addressing these challenges and supporting SMEs through their services.
International trade is relevant to Brussels. The region is an open and globally connected economic hub where SMEs contribute to the development of the region and the country, as mentioned by the vice president of the European Investment Bank. Trade agreements facilitate trade and improve access to foreign markets by removing barriers, as stated by the Council of the European Union. At the same time, the removal of trade barriers and access to Canada does not necessarily guarantee that the company will actively operate there and foster its economic activity.
Challenges of SMEs despite access to the Canadian market
The trade agreement creates opportunities for SMEs by improving access to the Canadian market, as mentioned by the Canadian government. It removes tariffs on 99% of goods and simplifies trade in services. Customs procedures are streamlined, trade in services simplified, and export costs are reduced. The agreement also increases predictability and transparency for investors.
Despite these benefits, SMEs still face challenges. According to the Canadian government, compared to larger firms, they often have fewer resources, limited knowledge, and less experience with foreign markets. Barriers such as language, culture, finding customers in foreign markets, and higher risks can make exporting difficult. However, these challenges reflect the gap between having opportunities and successfully using them.
How can EEN facilitate the process?
In this context, support mechanisms become essential to turn access into real market participation. CETA provides a positive environment for doing business but does not substitute for assistance. EEN offers support for turning trade opportunities into practical business steps.
This support is mainly delivered through practical tools that help SMEs internationalize more effectively. The network allows businesses to get acquainted with partners abroad and learn how to operate on a foreign market, providing them with necessary assistance in reducing information gaps and offering useful advice. The role of EEN in promoting SMEs is achieved by facilitating matchmaking, offering advice, and gaining market knowledge, as cited in EEN impact report (2022-2025).
Practical evidence
The CETA’s effects are already evident in reality. There are plenty of practical examples demonstrating that European companies benefit greatly from the CETA. Dutch company Jaga, which specializes in heating and ventilation products, has observed that their trading relations with Canada have become much easier and more competitive because of lower trade barriers. Also, ENATA points out that simpler procedures, such as decreased paperwork, help enter foreign markets and create more exposure.
The influence at the Belgian level can be observed as well. After the provisional implementation of CETA, there has been a significant increase in Belgian services exports to Canada. Moreover, removing duties has saved a lot of money for Belgian businesses, especially those in the chocolate industry and the pharmaceutical sector. While these examples come from other European countries, they suggest an underlying trend. SMEs in export-oriented industries may benefit from CETA when they successfully navigate foreign markets.
Conclusion
SMEs may require support to benefit from the opportunities provided by trade agreements. Brussels-based companies could consider combining better market access with the help of Enterprise Europe Network to transform their potential into export success.
SMEs can take part in dedicated business events and explore concrete collaboration opportunities in the region. Beci and Enterprise Europe Brussels offer tailored guidance to Brussels companies - from market insights and access to opportunities to partner search in different countries.
Contact us to see how we can support your international activities at international@beci.be.
By Sudenaz Sahin
