Hamburg, February 18 – The trade volume between India and the Port of Hamburg has nearly doubled in the past year, signaling a burgeoning economic relationship. This significant growth, coupled with the recent free trade agreement between India and the EU, is prompting the port industry to explore even closer cooperation between the ports of Hamburg and Mumbai. Hamburg’s Senator for Economic Affairs, Melanie Leonhard (SPD), and Port CEO Jens Meier are particularly optimistic about the potential in the cruise business.
Mumbai’s Evolving Port Landscape and India’s Infrastructure Push
For approximately 150 years, Mumbai served as a pivotal port for overseas routes. Today, its former waterfront has transformed into a popular promenade, while cargo handling has progressively shifted away from the city center. Rajiv Jalota of the Indian Ports Association emphasizes the critical need for infrastructure development. “We need infrastructure: in the ports, but also in the surrounding area,” Jalota stated. “Industrial production is growing in India in all sectors. For this, we need roads and waterways.”
Container transshipment already takes place across Mumbai’s bay, and a new container port is under construction further north. India is actively seeking foreign investment for these projects, with European shipping companies like Hapag-Lloyd encouraged to participate in new terminals. Hendrik Meyn, CEO of Hafen Hamburg Marketing, views this as an opportunity for Hamburg. “India is becoming increasingly important as a trading partner for Hamburg. We saw an almost doubling of goods traffic from 2024 to 2025,” Meyn highlighted.
Cruise Business: A “Gigantic Market” for Collaboration
Senator Leonhard, accompanied by Port CEO Jens Meier and representatives from various companies, is engaging with dozens of Indian port and logistics sector representatives to identify potential avenues for collaboration. “Here, solutions are also being sought for how the cruise business can be successfully implemented in India,” said Port CEO Jens Meier, describing it as a “gigantic market.”
India’s rapid infrastructure expansion requires not only foreign capital but also expertise. “This experience and India’s hunger are a good combination,” noted Jalota. With a population of 1.4 billion, India’s middle class is expanding significantly, fueling demand for more than just gazing wistfully at distant horizons from the waterfront.
EU-India Free Trade Agreement: A Milestone After Two Decades of Negotiations
The recent agreement between the EU and India, establishing a common market of nearly two billion people, marks a significant diplomatic achievement following almost two decades of negotiations. This landmark accord is expected to provide substantial impetus for enhanced economic ties.
Hamburg’s Economic Delegation in India
Following the conclusion of the free trade agreement, Hamburg’s economy is keen to intensify its collaboration with India. Senator Leonhard’s delegation to India underscores this commitment, exploring how Hamburg businesses can benefit from the new economic landscape.
Impact of the EU-India Agreement on Northern Germany
The EU-India free trade agreement holds promise for companies in northern Germany, particularly in Lower Saxony. The agreement is anticipated to open new markets and create opportunities for businesses to expand their reach and engage in increased trade with India.
This topic was broadcast on NDR 90.3 | NDR 90.3 Aktuell | February 18, 2026 | 11:00 AM.
