As India and the European Union accelerate negotiations on a comprehensive Free Trade Agreement (FTA), a key focus area has emerged: the export of green hydrogen and its derivatives through the strategic European ports of Rotterdam (Netherlands) and Antwerp (Belgium). This development aligns with both India’s National Green Hydrogen Mission and the EU’s Hydrogen Strategy, aiming to foster a low-carbon global economy.
🌍 Green Hydrogen: A Pillar of India-EU Clean Energy Partnership
According to Santosh Kumar Sarangi, Secretary, Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), the FTA discussions include provisions to reduce import duties and ensure seamless logistics for green hydrogen exports to Europe.
“India is in discussions with Europe, specifically the ports of Rotterdam and Antwerp, to ensure that green hydrogen and its derivatives exported to these countries are transported smoothly,” Sarangi stated.
The initiative is part of the India-EU Clean Energy and Climate Partnership (CECP), which promotes joint research, technology transfer, and sustainable energy solutions.
🚢 Rotterdam and Antwerp: Gateways to Europe’s Green Future
- Port of Rotterdam: Europe’s largest port, positioned as a hydrogen import hub
- Port of Antwerp: A key logistics and chemical industry center in Belgium
Both ports are being integrated into a proposed Green and Digital Corridor with Indian ports like Deendayal Port Authority (Kandla), facilitating the export of green hydrogen, ammonia, and methanol.
🔋 India’s Green Hydrogen Ambitions
Under the ₹19,744 crore National Green Hydrogen Mission, India aims to:
- Produce 5 million tonnes of green hydrogen annually by 2030
- Establish traceability standards for green hydrogen exports
- Build infrastructure at ports like Kandla and Tuticorin for green ammonia handling
🤝 Strategic Trade and Climate Synergy
Prime Minister Narendra Modi recently reaffirmed India’s commitment to finalizing the FTA with the EU by end of 2025, calling it a “win-win for trade and sustainability” during his address in Cyprus.
Stay tuned for updates on India’s clean energy diplomacy.
