India’s customs authorities are working with the Port of Rotterdam to explore digitalisation of cargo processes, aiming to accelerate cargo evacuation and reduce ship turnaround times at Indian ports. The discussions form part of India’s broader efforts to modernise maritime infrastructure and improve logistics efficiency.
Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal outlined the initiative on October 25, 2026, following a visit to the Port of Rotterdam in the Netherlands, where he met its CEO, Boudewijn Siemons.
“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 said.
The discussions come as India looks to expand port capacity alongside improvements in operational efficiency. Goyal said the country had doubled its port capacity over the preceding decade but would need further expansion to support economic growth and international trade. India expects port capacity to double twice more by 2047, he added.
The proposed collaboration could draw on Rotterdam’s port operations and logistics expertise to improve cargo movement and streamline processes. However, the authorities have not yet announced a detailed implementation timeline, the specific technologies under consideration or the Indian ports that could participate.
Rotterdam, Europe’s largest port, serves as a major gateway for Indian goods entering European markets. Its logistics infrastructure and connectivity make it a strategic partner as India seeks to strengthen trade links with the Netherlands and the wider European Union.
The engagement also comes amid expectations of expanded trade opportunities under the India-EU Free Trade Agreement. Improved cargo handling and logistics coordination could help exporters and importers manage growing trade flows, although the agreement must complete the required procedures before entering into force.
Goyal’s visit to the Netherlands, scheduled from October 24 to 27, includes engagements with businesses and stakeholders to strengthen bilateral trade and investment ties. A business forum in The Hague is also focusing on logistics and supply chain connectivity.