Brussels Emerges as Strategic EU Gateway for Indian Businesses

POSTED BY : MRUNALI SAKPAL DT. 12/04/2026 📞  8850212023

मुंबई NHI24.COM(M): World Trade Center Mumbai, in association with the All India Association of Industries (AIAI), organized an insightful session on “Doing Business with Brussels” at WTC Mumbai, aimed at strengthening trade and investment ties between India and the Brussels-Capital Region. The session brought together industry stakeholders, exporters, importers, MSME’s to explore emerging opportunities for collaboration and growth across sectors such as trade, logistics, technology, and sustainable development.

Mr. Bart Vandeputte, Trade & Investment Commissioner, Consulate General of Belgium in Mumbai, said, “Brussels offers a strategic gateway to Europe, with access to over 440 million affluent consumers and among the largest import markets globally at the heart of global trade. With nearly 75% of Europe’s GDP located within a 1,000-kilometre radius, companies establishing a presence in Brussels are effectively positioning themselves at the heart of the European economy.”

“Belgium’s strengths in logistics anchored by the Port of Antwerp, along with its robust R&D ecosystem and investor-friendly policies, make it an ideal destination for global expansion. With no restrictions on foreign ownership, a fast-track business setup process, and strong incentives for innovation, Brussels presents significant opportunities for Indian companies, particularly in sectors such as life sciences, digital technologies, green transition, and advanced manufacturing.” added Mr. Bart.

In the Image: Mr. Bart Vandeputte, Trade & Investment Commissioner, Consulate General of Belgium in Mumbai addressing at the event.

Dr. Vijay Kalantri, Chairman, World Trade Center Mumbai and President, All India Association of Industries (AIAI), said, “India–Belgium trade has demonstrated steady growth, reaching approximately USD 12.91 billion in FY 2025, with Indian exports alone accounting for over USD 6.3 billion across nearly 3,000 products. While Belgium has traditionally been associated with the diamond trade, today the partnership spans a far wider spectrum including engineering goods, chemicals, petroleum products, and advanced manufacturing. Belgium, along with the Belgium–Luxembourg Economic Union (BLEU), continues to be a key gateway for Indian businesses into the European Union.”

“The Port of Antwerp stands out as one of Europe’s most strategic logistics hubs, reflecting Belgium’s strength in trade facilitation and global connectivity. With cumulative FDI inflows of around USD 4 billion into India over the past 25 years, the relationship has strong institutional depth. Going forward, there is immense potential to collaborate in emerging sectors such as semiconductors, renewable energy, pharmaceuticals, and circular economy initiatives. As India moves towards becoming a USD 5 trillion economy and beyond, partnerships with innovation-driven economies like Belgium will play a crucial role in accelerating this growth trajectory.” added Dr. Kalantri

Dhanashree Gawankar, Trade & Investment Officer, Consulate General of Belgium in Mumbai, said, “Brussels offers a practical and cost-effective gateway for Indian companies looking to expand into Europe, especially when compared to cities like Paris, London, and Amsterdam. What makes it particularly attractive is the ease of setting up a business with no restrictions on foreign ownership, simple processes, and relatively low initial costs. Beyond this, companies also benefit from strong on-ground support in the form of funding, incubation, and market access, making it easier to establish, grow, and eventually scale across the European Union.”

Ms. Sangeeta Jain, Senior Director, All India Association of Industries (AIAI), emphasized, “Strengthening international business linkages is essential to support Indian enterprises in expanding globally. Regions like Brussels offer Indian businesses a strategic foothold in Europe, enabling them to gain a competitive advantage while accessing wider EU markets, advanced technologies, and new trade opportunities.”

Proposing the vote of thanks, Ms. Priya Pansare, Director, Trade & Investment Promotion, WTC Mumbai, highlighted, “the growing importance of Europe as a key trade and investment destination for Indian businesses. The regions such as Brussels offer strategic access to the wider European Union market, enabling companies to expand their global footprint, leverage integrated supply chains, and tap into high-value, innovation-driven sectors. She reiterated WTC Mumbai’s commitment to facilitating such international partnerships and creating platforms that enable Indian enterprises to effectively access and engage with the EU market.”

The session concluded with an engaging and interactive Q&A, reflecting strong interest among Indian businesses to explore opportunities in the European market and deepen trade linkages with the region.