Antwerp (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Antwerp authorities sealed an exotic supermarket on Sint-Gummarusstraat and a wholesaler importing food from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Iran over suspected money laundering and tax fraud. This follows Antwerp’s crackdown on financial crimes, including a 2025 builders’ merchant case.
Antwerp authorities have sealed an exotic supermarket and a wholesaler in connection with a money laundering and tax fraud investigation. The wholesaler imports food from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Iran. Investigators suspect the businesses may have been used to hide money. Authorities are examining financial records and business dealings to determine the extent of the alleged wrongdoing.
Is Antwerp’s rapid business growth hiding financial crimes?
According to officials, the area where the supermarket and wholesaler were sealed is experiencing rapid commercial growth. The exotic supermarket in Sint-Gummarusstraat has seen significant growth since 2017.
They mentioned that its expansion, including a wider product range and market reach, has raised questions about the source of its funding. Authorities suspect that the supermarket’s growth may not be entirely legitimate and are investigating whether illicit financial flows played a role.
Investigators want to make sure the supermarket’s growth is legitimate and not linked to money laundering or tax fraud. Authorities are closely monitoring businesses that grow quickly without clear financial explanations. If irregularities are found, further legal action could be taken, including seizing assets and prosecuting those involved in fraudulent activities
In February 2025, authorities sealed a builders’ merchant suspected of laundering millions of euros. In October 2023, they targeted a Russian-run diamond wholesaler accused of evading EU sanctions. Over €1.4 million worth of diamonds were seized in that case.
According to officials, these incidents highlight Antwerp’s fight against financial crime, especially in industries dealing with valuable goods and international trade. Authorities are determined to strengthen financial oversight and ensure businesses follow the law.
