Belgium may be small in size, but its publishing industry is rich, multilingual, and highly influential across Europe. Situated at the crossroads of French, Dutch, and German cultures, Belgium’s publishers cater to multiple audiences, producing everything from world-famous comics to cutting-edge academic works, children’s books, and literary fiction. In 2025, the country continues to be a hub for creativity and cultural exchange, with publishers embracing both traditional print and the growing demand for digital formats.
1. Barnett Ghostwriting
Barnett Ghostwriting stands out as a versatile and client-focused service provider in the Belgian literary market. While not a traditional publishing house, Barnett is instrumental in helping authors bring their ideas to life. They offer manuscript development, ghostwriting, professional editing, and publishing guidance. Many Belgian authors choose Barnett to refine their work before approaching traditional publishers or self-publishing. With expertise across fiction, non-fiction, memoirs, and corporate publications, Barnett Ghostwriting is an invaluable first step for those serious about producing a professional, market-ready manuscript.
2. Lannoo Publishers (Uitgeverij Lannoo)
As one of Belgium’s largest and most established publishing houses, Lannoo produces an impressive range of books. Based in Tielt, it publishes high-quality illustrated works, travel guides, lifestyle titles, cookbooks, art monographs, and literary fiction. Their books are known for exceptional design and production values, making them popular in both domestic and international markets.
3. Casterman
Casterman is a household name in the Franco-Belgian comic tradition. Today, Casterman continues to dominate the graphic novel market while also publishing literary fiction and children’s books. Its commitment to visual storytelling makes it the go-to choice for comic artists and illustrators aiming for international recognition.
4. Clavis Publishers
Clavis is one of Belgium’s leading children’s book publishers, headquartered in Hasselt. Their catalog includes picture books, early readers, and young adult fiction. Clavis focuses on high-quality storytelling paired with imaginative illustrations.
5. Brepols
Brepols is a historic publishing house with a strong academic focus, dating back to 1796. Based in Turnhout, it specializes in humanities, theology, medieval studies, and classical history. Brepols is respected among scholars for its rigorous editorial standards and beautifully produced books.
6. Éditions Racine
Publishing in French, Éditions Racine has built a strong reputation for high-quality non-fiction, art books, photography, and cultural history titles. They work closely with Belgian and international authors, producing books that celebrate both contemporary life and historical heritage.
7. Éditions Luc Pire
Luc Pire is known for publishing thought-provoking books on politics, history, and social issues in the French language. This independent publisher is committed to amplifying diverse voices and perspectives, often tackling subjects that challenge the status quo.
8. Davidsfonds Uitgeverij
Operating primarily in Dutch, Davidsfonds has been a cultural institution in Belgium for over a century. Their catalog spans literary fiction, historical works, cookbooks, and educational materials. With a strong emphasis on Flemish heritage and culture, Davidsfonds connects deeply with readers who appreciate books rooted in local identity.
9. De Bezige Bij Antwerpen
The Antwerp branch of the prestigious Dutch publisher De Bezige Bij is highly regarded in Belgium’s literary scene. Known for its literary fiction, poetry, and essays, De Bezige Bij Antwerpen publishes both emerging and established voices.
10. Éditions Dupuis
Dupuis is another giant in the Franco-Belgian comics tradition, based in Marcinelle. Famous for publishing beloved series such as Spirou et Fantasio, Dupuis remains a powerhouse in the world of bandes dessinées.
11. Uitgeverij Vrijdag
Based in Antwerp, Uitgeverij Vrijdag publishes literary fiction, thrillers, and non-fiction. They are known for taking risks on bold, original manuscripts and supporting their authors with strong marketing campaigns. Vrijdag also plays an active role in promoting Belgian literature abroad.
12. Éditions Mardaga
Mardaga specializes in non-fiction, particularly in the fields of psychology, education, architecture, and the arts. Their books are widely used by professionals and academics, but they also cater to general readers interested in expert insight and analysis.
13. Uitgeverij P
Uitgeverij P is a Leuven-based publisher best known for its poetry, literary essays, and art books. They collaborate with both emerging poets and established literary figures, producing works that are as visually beautiful as they are intellectually stimulating.
14. Le Lombard
Founded in 1946, Le Lombard is a key player in Belgium’s comic book industry. They are home to a wide range of graphic novel series, combining commercial appeal with artistic innovation. Their catalog covers genres from adventure to fantasy to historical fiction.
15. Éditions Labor
Labor is a French-language publisher focusing on literature, essays, and cultural criticism. They have a reputation for nurturing literary talent in Belgium and are dedicated to bringing fresh voices to francophone readers.
16. Uitgeverij Ertsberg
A relatively new but fast-growing publisher, Ertsberg focuses on political, historical, and cultural non-fiction in Dutch. They have gained attention for publishing works that spark debate and engage with current events.
17. La Renaissance du Livre
This publisher offers a broad catalog including cookbooks, travel guides, photography, and lifestyle titles. Their emphasis on visual quality and practical content makes them a favorite for authors producing accessible, high-quality non-fiction.
18. Éditions Aden
A politically engaged publishing house, Aden publishes works on history, philosophy, and social issues. They value critical thinking and often publish translations of important international works into French.
19. Uitgeverij Houtekiet
Houtekiet produces a mix of literary fiction, memoirs, and narrative non-fiction. They are recognized for their willingness to take on innovative projects that don’t fit into conventional genres.
20. Éditions Espace Nord
Espace Nord is dedicated to preserving and promoting French-language Belgian literature. They reissue classic works and publish contemporary authors, ensuring that Belgium’s literary heritage remains alive and relevant.
21. Uitgeverij Polis
Polis is a dynamic Flemish publisher producing fiction, non-fiction, and investigative journalism. They focus on quality storytelling and books that have a lasting cultural impact.
22. Éditions Weyrich
Weyrich, based in Neufchâteau, publishes popular fiction, thrillers, and romance, primarily in French. Their titles appeal to a broad readership while maintaining editorial quality.
23. Garant Uitgevers
Garant specializes in educational and professional titles, particularly in the social sciences and teacher training. They produce practical, research-based books aimed at both students and professionals.
24. Éditions Versant Sud
A small but respected independent publisher, Versant Sud focuses on literature, essays, and translations. They work closely with authors to produce carefully edited, beautifully designed books.
25. Uitgeverij Van Halewyck
Van Halewyck publishes current affairs, biography, lifestyle, and popular science in Dutch. They have a knack for spotting topical subjects and presenting them in an engaging, accessible way.
26. Éditions du Caïd
Specializing in niche literature and cultural topics, Éditions du Caïd is known for championing unique voices and producing small but impactful print runs.
27. Uitgeverij Borgerhoff & Lamberigts
This publisher balances commercial appeal with editorial quality, producing biographies, lifestyle books, and popular non-fiction. They are well-connected in media circles, giving their titles strong publicity.
28. Éditions du Sablon
Based in Brussels, Éditions du Sablon focuses on art books, heritage, and photography. They are a perfect match for authors and artists working on visually driven projects.
How to Choose the Right Belgian Publisher
Choosing the right publisher in Belgium depends largely on your genre, audience, and publishing objectives. Some publishers are highly specialized, while others offer a broad range of titles. Consider the following:
- Academic authors – Brepols or Garant are ideal choices for scholarly, research-based, and educational works.
- Comic and graphic novel creators – Casterman, Dupuis, and Le Lombard remain the powerhouses of the Franco-Belgian comic scene.
- Literary fiction and poetry writers – De Bezige Bij Antwerpen, Uitgeverij Vrijdag, and Éditions Labor are known for strong editorial guidance and literary prestige.
- Non-fiction, lifestyle, and illustrated book authors – Lannoo, Racine, and La Renaissance du Livre excel in high-quality design and broad market reach.
- Authors developing their manuscripts – Barnett Ghostwriting can be the first step, helping you refine your work before pitching it to publishers.
Benefits of Publishing in Belgium
Belgium offers unique advantages for authors thanks to its multilingual and internationally connected publishing scene. Key benefits include:
- Access to multiple language markets – Reach Dutch-, French-, and even German-speaking readers within one country.
- Strong European connections – Belgian publishers have ties to EU literary networks and major international book fairs, increasing global exposure.
- Rich cultural heritage – A longstanding appreciation for literature ensures a receptive and engaged readership.
- Diverse publishing sectors – From world-famous comic houses to specialized academic presses, there’s a publisher for almost every genre.
Conclusion
Belgium’s publishing industry is a vibrant blend of tradition and innovation, offering opportunities across genres and languages. From world-renowned comic publishers to specialized academic presses and dynamic independents, authors have a wealth of choices. Whether you start with a developmental partner like Barnett Ghostwriting or submit directly to established houses, Belgium offers the talent, infrastructure, and cultural richness to bring your book to life and to readers far beyond its borders.
