For decades, Belgium was known as a "tax haven" for business owners selling their shares. As of 2026, that era has officially ended. With the new General Capital Gains Tax (CGT) now in full effect, the way you value your company for a sale has fundamentally changed.

The Decoupling of Value

If you are planning to sell your business in 2026 or 2027, you are now operating under a "split valuation" reality. Under the new law, only the gains accumulated after January 1, 2026, are subject to the new tax rates (which can reach up to 10% for substantial shareholdings).

This makes your "Grandfathered Value"—the fair market value of your business as of December 31, 2025—the most important number in your professional life.

Why You Need a Certified Valuation Now

While the law allows for a "hierarchy" of valuation methods, the safest route for unlisted Belgian SMEs is a formal valuation by a certified auditor.

• The Risk: If you sell in 2026 without a documented 2025 baseline, you risk the tax authorities using a generic "Equity + 4x EBITDA" formula, which often undervalues specialized service firms.

• The Opportunity: A professional valuation now ensures that the "sweat equity" you built over the last decade remains tax-exempt, protecting your retirement nest egg