Belgium’s high inflation rate is driving more and more Belgians to shop across the border in France, where they can save up to 30% on certain products, according to a report by FPS Finance. In January, Belgium’s inflation rate rose to 4.4%, making it one of the highest compared to neighbouring countries like Germany, France, and the Netherlands, where inflation rates have decreased.
Shoppers interviewed by press agency EBU highlighted the significant savings they can make by shopping in France, with one person mentioning being able to buy a month’s worth of food for almost 300 euros. Another shopper pointed out that Belgian products are actually cheaper in France than in Belgium.
The Roncq shopping center, located near the French city of Lille just 4 kilometers from the border, has become a popular shopping destination for Belgians looking to save money. Despite the additional costs for petrol, shoppers are able to save an average of almost 30 euros on a 100 euro shopping basket in France.
With the rising inflation in Belgium, more and more people are opting to shop in neighbouring countries to stretch their budget further. The trend of cross-border shopping is likely to continue as long as the price difference between Belgium and its neighbours remains significant.
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