Herent (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – A jewellery and antiques fair operating in Herent Belgium experienced a police shutdown because of violations of trade regulations. Much interest gathered around the event that failed to follow the rules for gold transactions through cash payment.
Officers from Herent, Belgium, forced the closure of a jewellery and antique fair because it violated trade laws. The event organised by two persons drew substantial attention despite violating the regulations concerning gold transactions, which banned cash payments since 2024. The fair received no findings of fraud, yet authorities postponed the event to wait until all business requirements were met.
Hotel Carpinus hosted the upcoming fair, which drew multiple visitors on its first day at its central Herent location. Residents in the Leuven area could take advantage of the flyer invitations, which provided opportunities to exchange their antique items, such as fur apparel and gold, for monetary compensation.
A jewellery and antiques fair was scheduled to operate from Thursday to a weekend at Hotel Carpinus in the centre of Herent. New interest appeared immediately because at least thirty people attended on Thursday.
“In the last few days, flyers were distributed in the area of greater Leuven”,
Says the spokesperson for police zone HerKo, Caroline Kompanis.
“They asked people to come along with fur coats, gold and antiques. They would then pay for them in cash.”
However, the organisation had not studied the legislation that closely.
“We received a report from a resident of Herent,”
She continues.
“Based on that report, our local police officer, the police and the Federal Public Service Finance went to the scene. We found several violations of trade legislation there. Since 2024, gold may no longer be sold for cash, for example.”
How do antique markets shape Antwerp’s cultural identity?
Antwerp near Herent has operated the Black Market Antiques along with other antique markets located outside the LEZ zone since 2021. These marketplaces and fairs generate two essential impacts for the area: cultural growth and economic value through visiting collectors and fans. The regional art market receives direct influence from the BRAFA Art Fair in Brussels, which is recognised as one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious art fairs.
The Namur Expo began its operation as a fine art fair in 1977 and now welcomes more than 20,000 visitors annually through its exhibitions of European galleries. The combined group of events demonstrates the crucial role of obeying regulations while ensuring trade practice integrity in the antiques and art market sector.
