Suryaa Now International Desk: Surya International Trade & Maritime Bureau, Rotterdam/New Delhi: The operational capacity of Indian ports in international trade operations is world class... Surya International Trade & Maritime Bureau, Rotterdam/New Delhi: A key process has begun to bring the operational efficiency of Indian ports to global standards in international trade operations. Union Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal has announced that the customs departments of the country and the renowned Rotterdam Port Authority of the Netherlands are working hard on digitization of cargo processes at Indian ports in coordination with each other. He spoke to the media after a high-level meeting with Rotterdam Port CEO Boudewijn Simons as part of his visit to the Netherlands.
Faster cargo clearance and international standards: The Union Minister said that modernization of ports will increase the speed of cargo movement and save time and cost of domestic exporters significantly. It was explained that the latest technology and digital tracking systems implemented by Rotterdam, the largest port in Europe, in India will speed up the movement of goods (cargo evacuation) and reduce the turnaround time of ships. He clarified that this connection with Rotterdam port, which is the gateway to European markets, will boost the trade sector of both countries in the context of the proposed India-European Union Free Trade Agreement. Fourfold increase in the capacity of the country's ports by 2047: Although the handling capacity of the domestic ports has doubled in the last ten years, there is a need for massive expansion of infrastructure in view of the growing GDP of the country and foreign trade needs, said Piyush Goyal.
In line with the Vikasit Bharat 2047 goal, the government has set a target to double the country's port capacity two more times in the next two decades and increase it to a total of four times. He expressed confidence that advanced digital systems and improved logistics network will further strengthen the international competitiveness of Indian industries.