As part of the move toward adopting electronic invoicing across Europe in accordance with the VIDA Directive, Belgium has also joined the shift toward tax digitization. As of January 1, 2026, Belgian B2B companies have begun issuing exclusively electronic invoices. To do so correctly in accordance with the regulations, they must use the Peppol network. Here’s what connects Peppol and e-invoicing in Belgium, and how to seamlessly integrate this system using A-Cube API solutions.

What is Peppol and what is it used for? 

An acronym for Pan-European Public Procurement On-Line, Peppol is the system that allows companies and public administrations in various countries to exchange documents, data, and electronic invoices through a certified and secure network. Launched in 2008 as an OpenPeppol pilot project, it was funded by the European Commission with the aim of simplifying commercial exchanges and facilitating e-procurement processes among EU member states. It was subsequently adopted globally for sending business and administrative documents between entities in different countries and between these entities and public administrations. To date, Peppol covers the entire e-procurement process and is used by nearly 1.5 million registered companies in 98 countries. 

In short, Peppol enables different countries, with different e-invoicing systems, to exchange electronic invoices with one another. It is therefore emerging as the standard solution for both B2G (Business-to-Government) and B2B (Business-to-Business) invoicing. Currently, it plays a crucial role in the transition from closed national e-invoicing systems to a global interoperable network. 

Peppol and e-invoicing in Belgium: what is the connection?

In Belgium, the system through which electronic invoices are transmitted is based on Peppol Bis 3.0. The network uses the European standard EN 16931 and the international UBL format for creating and transmitting documents. But how does e-invoicing via Peppol work?

In short, the file is created in the required format (JSON or XML) and sent through a certified Access Point, which securely transmits it to the recipient. The recipient receives it directly in their management system, without the need for manual intervention. The entire process operates according to a “4-corner” model. The “corners” in question are simply the four main entities: the sender who initiates the exchange, their Peppol Access Point that connects to the customer’s, and the customer who receives the document.

Access Points enable exchanges between users of different nationalities. Invoices must be retained over time, ensuring their integrity, legibility, and accessibility in accordance with tax regulations. 

It is clear that companies required to issue electronic invoices need to integrate Peppol with their enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems. How can this be done in compliance with regulations without disrupting daily operations? With our API designed for electronic invoicing.

The A-Cube API for Peppol and e-invoicing in Belgium

To automate the electronic invoicing process, at A-Cube we have developed an API that integrates with other business software. Already used by numerous Italian companies, E-invoicing is secure, easy to install, compatible with PEPPOL BIS 3.0 and EN 16931, and compliant with Belgian regulations. 

Specifically, the API allows you to:

– send and receive digital invoices in structured format (XML) or JSON in real time, without queues or delays; 

– monitor incoming and outgoing flows; 

– obtain statistics grouped by VAT number;

– use webhooks to define notifications to be sent to internal systems;

– automate checks for tax ID numbers and VAT numbers.

Its dashboard is particularly intuitive, even for those without specialized IT knowledge. What’s more, it integrates seamlessly with ERP systems and other software already in use within the company.

Those who wish to try the service can do so for free, even simulating integration in various scenarios. This allows you to familiarize yourself with the API and get a preview of how Peppol and e-invoicing work in Belgium before actually using the system.

Navigate the transition with a certified partner

Peppol is much more than just an innovative technology. In an increasingly interconnected world, with ever-more-shared EU regulations, it serves as a common language that facilitates document exchange between companies. To use it as smoothly as possible—and avoid delays in invoice processing and potential penalties—you need to choose the right partner.

At A-Cube, we are an ISO 27001-certified Peppol Access Point. Our API-first solutions integrate seamlessly with over 250 ERP systems and ensure uninterrupted service even when handling large volumes. We process over 50 million invoices annually and serve more than 100,000 companies across various industries. 

Our international certifications and dedicated technical support for our clients have allowed us to build a reputation as a reliable and credible partner, capable of guiding businesses through rapid digitalization that complies with the latest European standards. To learn more and get the answers you’re looking for regarding Peppol and e-invoicing in Belgium, email us at info@acubeapi.com!