Piyush Goyal Calls for Deeper Economic Partnership with Netherlands

New Delhi, October 26: India has reiterated its commitment to expanding trade, investment and economic cooperation with the Netherlands, according to Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal.

During a visit to the Netherlands, Goyal participated in multiple events covering maritime transport, logistics and supply chains. He also met members of the Indian community and discussed new economic possibilities between the two countries.

An official statement noted that Goyal visited Rotterdam's port, widely described as Europe's biggest, together with its Chief Executive Officer, Bodewijn Simons. Goyal observed that Rotterdam is a key route for Indian products reaching European markets and holds a crucial place in international trade and supply chain networks.

According to the statement, the two sides exchanged ideas on port-based growth, improving logistics efficiency, reinforcing supply chain connectivity and promoting new trade and investment opportunities. Goyal said India is accelerating the modernisation of its ports and the creation of world-class maritime infrastructure. He added that the Netherlands' know-how in this field could prove very beneficial to India.

Goyal said there are immense possibilities for boosting maritime cooperation between India and the Netherlands. He stressed that this is particularly timely as talks on the India-European Union Free Trade Agreement (FTA) are approaching their final phase.

Once the India-EU FTA takes effect, Indian exporters will encounter significant opportunities in European markets. The Netherlands' advanced ports, strong logistics network and excellent connectivity across Europe could play an important part in giving fresh momentum to India-Europe trade.

The statement further said Goyal attended an Indian community programme at the Waldorf Astoria in Amsterdam, organised by the Indian Embassy. Around 70 attendees of Indian origin, including business owners, professionals and community representatives, were present.

Goyal commended the contribution of overseas Indians, saying they are playing a major role in reinforcing economic, cultural and social links between India and the Netherlands. He noted that expanding contact between people of both countries is giving economic cooperation a stronger base.

The programme also discussed emerging prospects in maritime logistics, trade and investment in light of the India-EU FTA. The Netherlands' role in driving deeper economic integration between India and Europe was described as important.