Prime Minister Narendra Modi has invited companies in the Netherlands to engage in design and innovation in India, emphasising that this is an opportune moment for such ventures. During a CEO Round Table focused on economic ties, he highlighted the cost-effectiveness of manufacturing in India, supported by various government incentives aimed at boosting production. Modi’s message was clear: now is the ideal time to capitalise on these opportunities.

Modi noted that over 300 Dutch firms are already engaged in the Indian market, contributing significantly to the country’s economic landscape. He stated that the Indian government has introduced next-generation reforms in taxation, labour, and governance, which have all played crucial roles in making manufacturing more competitive.

In the electronics sector, which has shifted from being a significant import category to India’s leading export product, Modi stressed the advantages of partnering with India. He encouraged Dutch companies to leverage incentives provided by the Indian government to establish manufacturing in the country for global operations.

Strengthening India-Netherlands Relations

During his remarks, PM Modi acknowledged the importance of Dutch companies in fostering India-Netherlands relations, calling them ambassadors of friendship between the two nations. He expressed gratitude for the confidence these companies have shown in India, noting that this support has positioned the Netherlands as India’s largest European investor and second-largest trading partner.

The Prime Minister also commemorated the 12th anniversary of his tenure, recalling that the results of the Lok Sabha elections in 2014 were announced on the same date. He stated that continuous reforms during these years have transformed India’s economic profile and underscored the value of ongoing bilateral engagements.

He mentioned the recent signing of the historic India-European Union Free Trade Agreement, viewing it as a foundation for mutual prosperity between two major democratic powers. Modi also hinted at forthcoming collective decisions with the Dutch Prime Minister aimed at enhancing this trade agreement.

Advancing Bilateral Initiatives

During this visit, PM Modi declared an escalation of the India-Netherlands partnership to a Strategic Partnership, focusing on green hydrogen, technology, and talent mobility. The Prime Minister asserted that the evolving relationship offers substantial opportunities for businesses in both countries. He encouraged the Dutch business community to embrace this potential and take bold steps into the Indian market.

Prior to the round table, PM Modi met with King Willem-Alexander and Queen Maxima of the Netherlands to discuss strengthening bilateral ties. The meeting underscored ongoing collaborations in areas such as education, innovation, and sustainable development initiatives. The Dutch royal couple hosted a dinner in honour of the Prime Minister, further solidifying ties at a diplomatic level.

Modi’s second visit to the Netherlands signifies India’s commitment to deepening bilateral relationships across various sectors, including defence, security, and green technologies. With bilateral trade projected to reach USD 27.8 billion in 2024-25, the Netherlands ranks as one of India’s key trade partners in Europe, ensuring a promising future for cooperative ventures.

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