GCCI Partners with Dutch University To Boost Agriculture In Both Nations

The Goa Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has chosen to collaborate with HAS University in the Netherlands to advance agriculture in both nations.

Additionally, the Netherlands is eager to share its technical know-how with Goa regarding waste management, sustainable development goals, and climate change.

Ralph de Sousa, president of the GCCI, and other GCCI representatives were met by a delegation led by the deputy consul general of the Netherlands, Thierry Van Helden. Van Helden also discussed working together with Goa and the Netherlands on tourism and information technology with Rohan Khaunte, the minister of tourism.

Khaunte reported that the meeting was fruitful and explored new concepts to strengthen our friendship. Van Helden also informed GCCI of the Netherlands' readiness to work with and support Goa's startups.

In order to advance agriculture in both countries, GCCI will also sign an MoU with HAS University in the Netherlands. College students from the Netherlands have already arrived in Goa and are undergoing training there.

Cassava, Goan okra (lady finger), and Averrhoa (bimbli), among other horticulture products, have been exported from Goa to the Netherlands. With an FDI of $4.6 billion last year, the Netherlands has been India's top trading partner in Europe. From India, the Netherlands imports spices, tea, coffee, and essential oils.

De Sousa added that significant business sectors in which the two nations have common interests are jewelry and diamonds. The Netherlands expressed a desire to increase trade with India and inquired about the startup scene in Goa and the IT sector.

Sanjay Amonkar, GCCI’s director general briefed the Dutch delegation about the startup incubators in the state, particularly BITS Pilani, which is focusing on medical engineering research and semiconductors. Amonkar said that new innovations in managing plastic and waste are welcome.