Member News

Reform of Corporate and Commercial Law in the Benelux

By Dirk Van GervenArie Van Hoe |  Geert Raaijmakers | Suzanne Rutten | Greet Wilkenhuysen


Much will undoubtedly be written about these reforms in the coming months. Our BeNeLux team is pleased to have this opportunity to explain to you the most important points and guiding principles. We will closely follow further developments and will be sure to keep you informed.
Luxembourg reformed its company law in 2016. The Netherlands and Belgium are in the process of doing likewise.In recent years, a number of European countries have embarked on sweeping reforms of company law. Indeed, increasing harmonisation of company law at the European level has allowed many Member States to adopt more dynamic policies for the purpose of attracting business.

Reform of Belgian Commercial Law: New Rules Applicable as of 1 November 2018
On 29 March 2018, the House of Representatives adopted the previously announced reform of Belgian commercial law. By means of this reform, Belgium bids adieu to the Napoleonic Code. > Read more

The Netherlands: The Modernisation of Company Law Remains a Hot Topic
In October 2012, the Flex BV Act significantly changed the rules applicable to private limited-liability companies (besloten vennootschap or BV). Amongst other things, the incorporation procedure was simplified and certain impediments removed, more freedom given to shape the company, and the minimum capital requirement of €18,000 abolished. > Read more

Luxembourg: Major Reform of the Commercial Companies Act in 2016
On 23 August 2016, Bill 5730 amending and modernising the Luxembourg Companies Act of 10 August 1915 entered into force. Companies existing on that date have a period of 24 months to amend their articles in order to comply, to the extent required, with the new provisions. > Read more

Compliments of NautaDutilh, a member of the EACCNY