Why did Belgian independence initially harm the country’s economy?

Following the revolution, Belgium’s independence initially harmed its economy due to several immediate factors:

• Loss of Markets: Separation from the north resulted in the sudden loss of access to the large Dutch market, which included the Dutch colonies.12
• Trade Barriers: The Schelde River, a vital waterway for trade, remained closed to Belgian commerce until 1839.12

To address this economic crisis, the Belgian government implemented a strategy of vigorous internal investment. This included the development of an extensive railroad network—starting with the first continental line between Brussels and Malines in 1835—and the pursuit of favorable trade agreements, such as the 1844 pact with the German Zollverein. These efforts were supported by a new industrial banking system, which provided essential financing for the expansion of heavy industry in Wallonia.12