The Belgian Competition Authority (BCA) has launched a general investigation into the mechanisms of sectoral price revision and indexation prevalent in the Belgian economy. This inquiry is a response to ongoing inflationary trends in Belgium, which have been notably higher than those in neighboring countries.

Utilizing the general investigation tool for the first time, the BCA will delve into the economic and regulatory dynamics surrounding these mechanisms. The inquiry will focus on identifying existing types of price review and indexation practices, evaluating their compliance with both Belgian and European competition law.

The investigation will assess how these practices may influence the pricing of goods and services, the overall price level in specific sectors, and the distribution of wealth among economic operators. The BCA aims to identify both potentially harmful practices and good practices that could serve as models for effective regulation.

Spanning a period of 12 to 14 months, the inquiry will begin with information requests and hearings involving sectoral organizations, businesses, and experts. The preliminary findings will be made available for public consultation, with the final results expected to be published in early 2026. This initiative is part of the BCA's broader strategy to enhance its preventive actions through sector-specific analyses.