Port of Rotterdam will sign two Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with India, appointed an office and also supported the establishment of a maritime university that will partner with Rotterdam’s institutions, marking the port’s joint initiatives with Indian parties.
Rene van der Plas, the head of Port of Rotterdam International stated that India is a fast-developing economy and invests in seaports, industrial areas and hinterland connections, making the country an ideal partner for the port.
Firstly, the partners will enhance their business tactics and also encourage manufacturing industry through the ‘Make-in-India programme’. India’s location and long coastline make the country a crucial maritime country.
Emile Hoogsteden, the director of Breakbulk and Logistics Containers commented
Rotterdam already has a strong position in trade with India but we think there is still plenty of potential to enhance our profile in the market and increase our market share , particularly through growth in retail, fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG), automotive accessories, and chemicals and pharmaceuticals.
Moreover, the Port of Rotterdam appointed Broekman Logistics, who currently holds 16 offices in India, as the Representative Team in India to boost its activities in the region and promote maritime trade flows between India and Europe through Rotterdam.
The two MoUs are to be inked during the trade mission and state visit to India, complementing the deal between the Port of Rotterdam Authority and the Gujarat Maritime Board.
From the educational point of view, the Port of Rotterdam Authority supports the Erasmus University Rotterdam and the Dutch Shipping & Transport College, for providing consultancy services related to the establishment of a maritime university in Gujarat.
In line with its development plans, India announced the establishment of the ‘Port Grid and Port Development’ plan for 204 minor ports throughout the country aiming to boost coastal shipping and inland waterways in six months.