India, Netherlands Seek Stronger Trade and Investment Ties as Piyush Goyal Visits Rotterdam

October 26, 2026

New Delhi: India is looking to strengthen its trade and investment partnership with the Netherlands, with Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal highlighting new opportunities in maritime logistics, supply chain connectivity and economic cooperation during his visit.

Goyal’s programme included a visit to the Port of Rotterdam, meetings with stakeholders in the maritime and logistics sector, and an interaction with members of the Indian community in Amsterdam, according to an official statement.

Port of Rotterdam Offers Scope for Greater Cooperation

Goyal toured the Port of Rotterdam, accompanied by its Chief Executive Officer, Boudewijn Siemons. As Europe’s largest port, Rotterdam serves as a major gateway for goods entering European markets and plays an important role in global trade and supply chains.

During the visit, Goyal discussed ways to advance port-led growth, improve logistics efficiency and strengthen supply chain connectivity between India and Europe.

He said India’s efforts to modernise existing ports and develop advanced maritime infrastructure could open up opportunities to work with Rotterdam and draw on its expertise.

The minister also stressed the potential for closer cooperation in trade and investment, particularly as India continues to expand its maritime infrastructure.

India-EU Trade Agreement Could Open New Opportunities

The Netherlands holds strategic importance for India because of its port facilities, logistics network and connectivity with European markets. These advantages could become more significant in the context of the India-EU Free Trade Agreement (FTA).

The agreement is expected to create new opportunities for Indian exporters. The Netherlands’ logistics infrastructure could help facilitate trade flows and strengthen supply chains between India and Europe.

Goyal’s visit highlighted maritime logistics as an important area for cooperation, alongside broader efforts to deepen economic engagement between the two countries.

Goyal Meets Indian Community in Amsterdam

The minister also attended an interaction with the Indian community hosted by the Embassy of India at the Waldorf Astoria Amsterdam. Around 70 people participated in the gathering, including business and professional representatives.

The meeting provided an opportunity to engage with members of the Indian diaspora and discuss their role in strengthening ties between India and the Netherlands.

The interaction highlighted the Indian community’s contribution to bilateral economic, cultural and people-to-people relations. It also underscored the scope for further collaboration in maritime logistics and other areas of mutual interest as India and Europe pursue closer economic integration.