Belgium’s three regions announced on Friday that they would introduce a road tax next year. The policy marks a significant shift for the country, which currently does not charge motorists for utilizing its highway network, a topic that has been the subject of extensive debate for several years.
According to François Desquesnes, the transport minister for the southern Wallonia region, the initiative is designed to ensure that everyone who benefits from the nation’s infrastructure contributes fairly to its upkeep. The revenue generated by these charges is earmarked specifically for the operation and maintenance of the regional road network, for which the individual regions hold primary responsibility.
Beginning on 1 May 2027, all drivers will be required to register their vehicles and pay the necessary tax. The system will accommodate various travel needs, including the availability of day passes for those simply transiting through the country. For annual passes, the cost is set at €90 for zero-emission vehicles, while higher polluting vehicles will face fees of up to €125. To ensure compliance, road cameras will be utilized to monitor traffic, and drivers found without a valid pass will face a fine of €70.
While the proposal has been announced, it still requires final approval from both the regional governments and European authorities. Furthermore, according to the chairman of the liberal-conservative MR party, the government intends to offset the new toll by lowering other taxes for Belgians.
