Indian customs and Rotterdam port authorities are working towards digitalising processes in India to accelerate cargo evacuation and reduce ship turnaround times, Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal said on Sunday, highlighting the need to expand the country's port capacity to support rising trade volumes.
Goyal made the remarks after visiting the Port of Rotterdam in the Netherlands, where he met its chief executive officer, Boudewijn Siemons. The discussions focused on adopting modern digital practices and improving the efficiency of India's port operations.
It was a pleasure to visit the Port of Rotterdam, one of Europe’s leading maritime gateways, and experience its operations firsthand during a tour aboard a port vessel alongside its CEO, Mr. Boudewijn Siemons. We exchanged views on advancing port-led growth, enhancing logistics efficiency, strengthening supply chain connectivity, and unlocking new opportunities for trade and investment. As India modernises its existing ports and develops state-of-the-art maritime infrastructure, there is immense potential to collaborate with the Port of Rotterdam, draw on its expertise, and strengthen India-Netherlands cooperation.
— Piyush Goyal (@PiyushGoyal) October 25, 2026
India targets major expansion in port capacity
"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 told reporters.
The minister said India had doubled its port capacity over the past decade but would need substantially more infrastructure to accommodate future economic growth and international trade.
"By 2047, we expect port capacity to double twice over the next two decades to support GDP growth and international trade," he said.
Faster cargo evacuation and shorter vessel turnaround times can improve logistics efficiency, reduce delays and help exporters move goods more quickly through ports. Digitalisation could also support better coordination between customs authorities and port operators.
India-EU trade pact could boost export opportunities
Goyal said the India-EU Free Trade Agreement would create significant opportunities for businesses on both sides.
Rotterdam, Europe's largest port, serves as a key gateway for Indian goods entering European markets and plays a major role in international trade and global supply chains.
The Netherlands' port infrastructure, logistics network and connectivity with European markets could help facilitate higher trade flows and strengthen India-Europe supply chains as the trade agreement opens up opportunities for exporters.
Goyal urges Indian professionals abroad to mentor startups
During his visit to Amsterdam, Goyal also addressed members of the Indian community and invited professionals and academicians to collaborate with Indian institutions and mentor startups.
Speaking about young people, the minister expressed concern over the influence of negativity among youth in some parts of the world, including Europe. He stressed the importance of responsibility and loyalty towards the country that provides employment and supports families.
Goyal said the focus should be on encouraging young people to become more responsive and responsible, adding that similar challenges could arise in India as well.