The Mayor of Waterloo in Belgium recently commended a local small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) for its significant contribution to the regional economy.
Florence Reuter made the comments during a ceremony held to celebrate the 30th anniversary of Caspian Tradition, a Waterloo-based business. Starting from modest roots, the company has evolved into a major player in its sector.
Reuter, a prominent member of the Reformist Movement and a representative in Belgium’s Chamber of Representatives, described the company as “a shining example of business excellence” and a “highly respectable family-run enterprise.”
“It produces excellent products, and having an SME like this in our community is extremely valuable,” she said. “SMEs are the backbone of the economy, both locally and nationally, here in Belgium, and we are proud to have them in Waterloo.”
Founded in 1995 by Iran-born couple Ahmad and Arya Razavi, Caspian Tradition specializes in the import, packaging, and distribution of premium caviar. Located in a Waterloo business park, the company works with esteemed producers worldwide to deliver products of exceptional quality.
As part of its strategic expansion, Caspian Tradition acquired La Maison du Caviar in Brussels in 2011, thereby broadening its range to include gourmet items such as foie gras and smoked salmon.
Speaking at the anniversary event in Braine-l’Alleud on Friday, co-founder Ahmad Razavi explained that the expansion was driven by “a desire to offer refined dishes to a sophisticated clientele.”
In 2012, the business further strengthened its operations by opening a 1,000-square-meter state-of-the-art laboratory that adheres to stringent EU regulations.
“This facility guarantees perfect traceability and optimal quality, meeting the demands of chefs and food enthusiasts,” he added.
Ahmad also emphasized the company’s environmental awareness, highlighting its commitment to sustainability by prioritizing farmed caviar, contributing to the conservation of endangered sturgeon species.
“This approach reflects our dedication to responsible and sustainable practices, which are crucial for the future of this industry,” he said.
However, Ahmad expressed concern about the growing problem of illegal fishing in the Caspian Sea, often associated with former Soviet states. Such practices, he said, do not comply with the strict regulations that reputable companies like his respect and uphold.
“It’s a real challenge for legitimate businesses,” he admitted.
Thanks to its dedication to quality and expertise, Caspian Tradition has become the leading caviar brand in Belgium and continues to grow internationally. The company recently inaugurated a new venue aimed at hosting gastronomic events and culinary competitions.
The Razavi couple’s entrepreneurial journey began in the 1990s when Ahmad, originally a trained lawyer, came to Brussels to pursue a PhD at ULB. Although caviar was part of his father’s background in Iran, Ahmad’s entry into the industry was serendipitous.
Three decades later, the company’s operations have expanded significantly, establishing it as the largest of its kind in Europe.
While Belgium remains a key market—especially during the festive season—the business now exports its products globally.
Much has changed within the industry, especially after the 2009 ban on wild sturgeon fishing, which was implemented to protect the endangered species. This shift led to the growth of aquaculture as a sustainable and commercially viable alternative for caviar production—an approach that Caspian Tradition successfully embraced.
From its original 500-square-meter space, the company now occupies 1,500 square meters in Waterloo and produces several tonnes of premium caviar each year.
By transitioning to farmed caviar, the Razavis have not only secured their business’s future but also played a key role in preserving one of the marine world’s rarest and most valuable products.
Eurotoday is a daily online publication based in Belgium. Eurotoday delivers unique and independent coverage of European and international affairs, focusing on EU policy, major developments in Member States, and global issues from a European perspective.
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