India-Netherlands Launch Joint Trade & Investment Committee

RR Team

2 months ago

India and the Netherlands have formalized a significant step in bilateral economic cooperation by establishing the India Netherlands Joint Trade and Investment Committee (JTIC). The announcement coincided with the visit of Dutch Foreign Minister H.E. David van Weel to India and his bilateral meeting with Union External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar. The JTIC was established through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between India’s Ministry of Commerce and Industry and the Netherlands’ Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

Objectives of the JTIC

The JTIC provides a structured platform for regular dialogue and cooperation on trade and investment matters. It aims to review bilateral trade relations, promote two-way investments, address trade barriers, and explore collaborations in sectors of mutual interest. The committee will also facilitate consultations between the private sector and government bodies to enhance technology transfer and business engagement, especially for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

Structure and Functioning

The committee will meet annually, alternately in India and the Netherlands, ensuring sustained engagement. It will be co-chaired by the Additional Secretary, Department of Commerce, India, and the Director General (Foreign Economic Relations), Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Netherlands. The JTIC delegations will include government officials and designated members from both countries. One of its core roles will be identifying and eliminating trade and investment barriers while promoting trade facilitation measures.

Enhancing Bilateral Trade and Investment

The JTIC will encourage interaction between Chambers of Commerce and Industry of both countries and promote collaboration in sectors of shared interest. It aims to create a resilient and diversified supply chain while supporting sustainable and inclusive economic growth. The MoU underscores both nations’ commitment to deepening economic ties and leveraging bilateral and multilateral engagements to strengthen strategic cooperation.

Officials from both India and the Netherlands expressed confidence that the JTIC will serve as a pivotal mechanism to advance mutually beneficial trade and investment outcomes. The committee is expected to drive meaningful engagement between governments and the private sector, ensuring a structured approach to bilateral economic growth.