Strategic Push for Digitalisation

India and the authorities at the Port of Rotterdam—Europe's largest port—are actively collaborating to digitalise cargo processes in India. The initiative is designed to significantly speed up cargo evacuation, align with modern international standards, and reduce ship turnaround times.

Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal, during his visit to the Netherlands where he met Port of Rotterdam CEO Boudewijn Siemons, emphasized the urgent need to expand and modernize India's maritime infrastructure.

"The customs authorities in India and the authorities at the Port of Rotterdam are engaged to see how we can digitalise in India to bring in modern standards, faster evacuation of cargo, and speed up the turnaround time of ships," Goyal stated.

Expanding Port Capacity for Future Growth

Highlighting the rapid expansion of India's maritime sector over the past decade, the minister noted that capacity has doubled during this period. However, given the rapid trajectory of economic development, further scaling is imperative.

"Despite doubling our port capacity over the past decade, India still needs more capacity. By 2047, we expect port capacity to double twice over the next two decades to support GDP growth and international trade," Goyal said.

Bolstering India-EU Trade Relations

Serving as a primary gateway for Indian goods into the broader European market, the Port of Rotterdam acts as a critical hub in global supply chains. The impending India-European Union Free Trade Agreement is expected to further unlock substantial commercial potential for businesses on both sides, making efficient logistics and Rotterdam's world-class connectivity increasingly vital.

During his engagements with the Indian diaspora in Amsterdam, Goyal also encouraged professionals and academics to actively contribute to India's burgeoning startup ecosystem and foster deeper institutional ties.