India and the Port of Rotterdam are exploring ways to digitalise port and customs processes in India to speed up cargo evacuation, cut vessel turnaround times, and introduce modern operational standards, Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said on Sunday.
Speaking to reporters during his visit to the Port of Rotterdam in the Netherlands, Goyal said Indian customs authorities and the Port of Rotterdam authorities were working together to identify opportunities to bring advanced digital practices into India’s port ecosystem. During the visit, he also met Boudewijn Siemons, CEO of the Port of Rotterdam.
Despite doubling its port capacity over the past decade, India will need substantial further expansion to accommodate rising cargo volumes and support economic growth. Goyal said India expects its port capacity to double twice over the next two decades, by 2047, in line with the country’s long-term economic and trade ambitions.
The proposed digitalisation initiatives are expected to help improve operational efficiency, facilitate faster cargo movement and reduce delays in port operations, strengthening the competitiveness of India’s maritime logistics sector.
India-EU FTA to Open New Trade Opportunities
Highlighting the significance of the India-European Union Free Trade Agreement (FTA), Goyal said the agreement would create substantial opportunities for businesses on both sides.
As Europe’s largest port, the Port of Rotterdam serves as a major gateway for Indian goods entering European markets and plays a crucial role in international trade and global supply chains. Its advanced port infrastructure, logistics capabilities and connectivity with European markets could help facilitate increased trade flows as India and the EU deepen their economic engagement.
The minister’s visit highlighted the Netherlands’ strategic importance in India’s efforts to strengthen trade links with Europe and develop more efficient, resilient supply chains. Improved digital connectivity and logistics coordination between Indian ports and Rotterdam could further support exporters and importers by enhancing cargo visibility, efficiency and reliability.
Calls for Greater Engagement with Indian Institutions and Start-ups
During his interaction with the Indian community in Amsterdam, Goyal encouraged professionals and academicians to collaborate with Indian educational and research institutions and mentor start-ups.
Emphasising the importance of youth engagement and responsible citizenship, he said young people should remain constructive, responsive and responsible amid growing negativity in some parts of the world. He added that such challenges could also emerge in India and stressed the importance of contributing positively to society.
India’s port modernisation efforts, coupled with stronger international partnerships and expanding trade opportunities under the India-EU FTA, are expected to play an important role in strengthening the country’s maritime infrastructure and global trade competitiveness.