New Opportunities Emerge as India and Netherlands Deepen Semiconductor Ties

The recent visit of Commerce Secretary Sunil Barthwal to the Netherlands was with a clear focus on strengthening economic ties, particularly in emerging sectors like semiconductors. His visit marked a new chapter in the India-Netherlands relationship, paving the way for deeper collaboration in trade, innovation, and technology.

During his trip, Barthwal held important meetings with Dutch officials, business leaders, and industry players. One of the major highlights was his engagement with ASML, the global leader in photolithography systems essential for semiconductor manufacturing. In discussions with ASML CEO Christophe Fouquet, Barthwal emphasized India’s commitment to becoming a global hub for semiconductors through initiatives like the India Semiconductor Mission. The talks focused on how ASML’s technology and expertise could support India’s growing ambitions in this critical sector. Barthwal also outlined India’s strong policy framework that includes production-linked incentives and infrastructure development aimed at boosting semiconductor manufacturing.

The visit also included a productive discussion with Michiel Sweers from the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Both sides agreed to set up a Joint Trade and Investment Committee (JTIC) to strengthen cooperation across various sectors. Barthwal reaffirmed India’s commitment to creating a supportive environment for businesses, highlighting reforms aimed at improving ease of doing business, boosting manufacturing, and increasing exports.

Another key part of the visit was a CEOs Roundtable Conference organized by the Embassy of India. Around 40 representatives from leading Dutch and Indian companies participated, exchanging ideas on trade opportunities and challenges. Barthwal and Indian Ambassador Reenat Sandhu actively engaged with the participants, encouraging collaboration in fields like renewable energy, healthcare, logistics, agriculture, and urban development. The event also showcased India’s ‘One District One Product’ (ODOP) initiative, highlighting the country’s diverse artisanal heritage.

Barthwal’s tour of the Port of Rotterdam, Europe’s largest and one of the most advanced ports, opened new doors for maritime cooperation. In discussions with Boudewijn Siemons, CEO of the Port Authority, Barthwal explored partnerships focused on green shipping, port digitalization, and logistics optimization. The two sides discussed creating a Green and Digital Corridor between Rotterdam and Indian ports like Deendayal Port Authority Kandla, with future possibilities for exporting green hydrogen and related products to Europe.

The visit concluded with meetings aimed at enhancing innovation partnerships, including discussions on startup ecosystems, tech exchange, and space cooperation. These engagements highlighted India’s rising role as a hub for technology and innovation and the Netherlands’ strengths in advanced industries, setting the stage for a future-ready economic partnership between the two nations.

Source: PIB