Between 2013 and 2023, Belgium's business expenditure on R&D in manufacturing displayed an upward trend, starting at 1.23 units of GDP in 2013 and reaching 1.75 units in 2023. The Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) over the last five years from 2018 to 2023 was 4.39%. The year-on-year percentage variations saw significant positive growth, with notable increments in 2017 (6.5%) and 2019 (9.73%). However, there was a slight decline of 1.03% in 2021.

For the forecast period from 2024 to 2028, the CAGR is estimated to be 2.23%, indicating a steadier pace of growth. The overall five-year growth rate is projected to be 11.67%, reflecting a moderate yet consistent increase in R&D expenditure in Belgium's manufacturing sector.

Future trends worth monitoring include:

Adjustments in government policies and incentives for R&D investments.
Technological advancements and their adoption in the manufacturing sector.
Global economic conditions and their impact on Belgium’s manufacturing industry.