Revised Belgian Sanctions Law Brings Higher Fines, Broader Powers

On 1 September 2026, Belgium’s new Criminal Code entered into force. In parallel, many specific criminal laws have been amended to align with the new general criminal law framework. This includes Belgium’s Economic Sanctions Law, which governs the implementation of restrictive measures adopted by the Council of the European Union. 

The reform also implements Directive (EU) 2024/1226, which aims to strengthen and harmonise the enforcement of EU sanctions across the Union. The new Economic Sanctions Law introduces more detailed rules on enforcement powers, administrative penalties and criminal sanctions.

Broader enforcement powers

The new Economic Sanctions Law provides that specific authorities may be designated as competent for the enforcement of EU sanctions. Although the implementing Royal Decree has not yet been adopted, existing designations, including the designation of the Treasury as competent for financial sanctions, are expressly maintained until new executive measures