In a bold move that underlines its commitment to sustainable global trade, Port of Antwerp-Bruges recently joined the Belgian economic mission to India from March 3 to 7, unveiling an ambitious plan to further deepen the longstanding bond between Belgium and one of the world’s fastest-growing economies. With India’s dynamic market and rapid industrial expansion, the port views the nation as a pivotal partner—one that is destined to shape the future of global logistics and trade.
A Strategic Partnership Forged in Growth
India, the world’s fifth-largest economy by GDP, is on track to become the third-largest by 2030. It is a land of immense opportunities. Recognized as the “factory of the world,” its robust industrial capacity is bolstered by a globally competitive IT sector, one of the largest automotive industries, and a booming pharmaceutical and chemical sector. While overall trade with India grew by 10% last year, import volumes via the Port of Antwerp-Bruges surged by more than 22%. This remarkable growth not only emphasizes India’s rising influence in international trade but also validates the port’s strategic focus on this key market.
Energizing the Future with Sustainable Initiatives
Beyond its traditional industrial strengths, India’s aggressive pursuit of renewable energy and green technologies finds a perfect counterpart in Port of Antwerp-Bruges’ commitment to the energy transition. As the chair of the Belgian Hydrogen Council, the port has been proactive in establishing partnerships that support sustainable progress. A recent Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed with Green H2 India, in collaboration with Flanders Investment & Trade (FIT), marks an exciting step towards jointly accelerating the energy transition. This partnership will facilitate dialogue between the Belgian and Indian hydrogen ecosystems, explore the technical impacts of emerging technologies, and help shape future policy developments.
Building on decades of collaboration
The roots of this collaboration run deep. Port of Antwerp-Bruges has maintained an active presence in India since it opened its representative office in Mumbai back in 2006. This enduring relationship has borne fruit over the years—evidenced by the establishment of the JNPA-Antwerp Port Training and Consultancy Foundation at Mumbai’s Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority. Since 1977, the port’s affiliate, the Antwerp/Flanders Port Training Center, has imparted its expertise to more than 20,000 professionals worldwide. Today, the training center in Mumbai hosts annual courses that combine global expertise with local insights, ensuring that the workforce is well-equipped to meet modern maritime challenges.
A Delegation of Visionaries
The economic mission to India was led by a distinguished delegation including Jacques Vandermeiren, CEO of Port of Antwerp-Bruges; Luc Arnouts, VP International Networks; and other key executives and dignitaries. Their itinerary was packed with high-profile events and visits—ranging from the Flanders India Hydrogen and Ports Round Table to an insightful site visit to Larsen & Toubro, and even a tour aboard the dredging vessel Deme “Congo River.” Each activity was designed not only to strengthen trade ties but also to share expertise in decarbonization and sustainable port operations.
Excellence Through Sangam: Celebrating Confluence and Innovation
Crowning the week’s achievements was the “Excellence Through Sangam” gala event. Derived from the Sanskrit word for “coming together” or “confluence,” Sangam symbolized the union of tradition and modernity—a perfect metaphor for Belgian-Indian relations. The gala, enriched by a fusion of Indian and Belgian entertainment, underscored the power of international collaboration, uniting business leaders, policymakers, and innovators from both nations under one roof.
Looking Ahead
As global trade evolves and environmental challenges mount, the strategic alignment between Port of Antwerp-Bruges and India offers a promising blueprint for the future. By blending decades of experience with forward-thinking initiatives, the port is not just expanding its reach—it’s setting the stage for a sustainable and prosperous global economy.
For the middle-class reader navigating the complexities of today’s interconnected world, this partnership serves as a compelling reminder: in an era marked by rapid change and bold visions, collaboration across borders is not only inevitable but also essential for building a brighter, greener future.
