Belgium and India’s longstanding trade relations are set for a significant boost during the eight-day visit of a high-powered Belgian economic delegation, led by Princess Astrid, which arrived in New Delhi on March 1. The mission, which includes Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot and representatives from Belgium’s three regional foreign trade promotion agencies—Flanders Investment & Trade (FIT), the Wallonia Export-Investment Agency (AWEX), and hub.brussels—signals a strong commitment to enhancing bilateral cooperation across multiple sectors.
India’s former ambassador to Belgium, Manjeev Singh Puri, aptly characterizes Belgium’s approach: “Technologically very advanced, but they don’t make a big show of things. They just do things quietly.” This sentiment is reflected in Belgium’s strategic investments in India, with the visit focusing on expanding trade beyond traditional strongholds like the diamond sector.
The delegation’s visit has already yielded tangible results. On the first two days of the tour, Princess Astrid inaugurated a new production facility of Agristo, a Belgian potato processing company, in Bijnor, Uttar Pradesh. The Rs 750 crore investment in this plant is expected to empower local farmers by diversifying their crops beyond sugarcane, demonstrating Belgium’s commitment to fostering sustainable agricultural development in India.
Belgium currently ranks as India’s 13th largest export destination and 16th largest import partner. While diamonds remain a dominant aspect of trade between the two nations, this visit is expected to catalyse growth in sectors such as pharmaceuticals, logistics, defence, construction, and clean technology.
“Belgium’s interest in India stems from the country’s economic resilience and ability to deliver,” says Ambassador Puri. This perspective is shared by Belgium’s Ambassador to India, Didier Vanderhasselt, who recently pointed out that Belgium’s expertise in defence technology and mechanical engineering aligns well with India’s growing needs. With defence collaborations on the agenda, Vanderhasselt is set to meet Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and participate in a high-level roundtable discussion.
The mission’s impact extends beyond economic partnerships. According to reports, 22 projects are expected to be finalized in Delhi, with another 12 set to take shape in Mumbai. Key areas of collaboration include climate and renewable energy, advanced materials, eco-construction, life sciences, and steel decarbonization.
A report in The Tribune says a seminar on water and waste management will be held during the visit, emphasizing Belgium’s clean-tech expertise, which aligns with India’s sustainability goals. Additionally, a research and innovation centre will be inaugurated by Princess Astrid, further solidifying scientific and technological cooperation.
Princess Astrid’s visit comes on the heels of European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s recent discussions with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on trade, technology, and innovation.
India and Belgium share a rich history of diplomatic and trade relations, with Brussels being among the first to establish ties with New Delhi post-independence in 1947. Over the decades, their trade partnerships have expanded into pharmaceuticals, chemicals, food, and machinery.
As Belgium quietly deepens its footprint in India, this mission underscores the growing synergy between the two nations, paving the way for greater economic and technological collaboration in the years to come.
