07/09/2026
Our Group took part in Belgium's official visit to India, where discussions focused on defense and industry. On this occasion, John Cockerill has signed a MoU with the Government of Maharashtra to explore the development of green iron and green steel in Gadchiroli, marking an important step towards bringing advanced low-carbon iron making technologies to the region.
The MoU was formally exchanged on 4th September 2026 at the Jio World Convention Centre, Mumbai, during the India–Belgium High-Level Dialogue on the India–EU FTA, in the presence of H.E. Bart De Wever, Prime Minister of Belgium; Hon'ble Shri Devendra Fadnavis, Chief Minister of Maharashtra; and Shri Piyush Goyal, Union Minister of Commerce & Industry.
Through this partnership, John Cockerill will bring its expertise in advanced ironmaking and low-carbon technologies to support Maharashtra’s ambition to develop a more sustainable and competitive steel industry.
The proposed development in Gadchiroli brings together John Cockerill’s technology and industrial expertise, Maharashtra’s mineral resources and India’s ambition for industrial decarbonisation.
John Cockerill’s advanced low-carbon ironmaking solutions can play an important role in supporting the transition towards greener steel production, while creating opportunities for technology development, local value creation, skills development and sustainable industrial growth.
The day before in New Delhi, our representatives also had the pleasure of speaking at the India-Belgium Defence CEO’s roundtable and participating in the B2B meetings, during which John Cockerill's contribution to the Zorawar light tank program and our local partnerships were highlighted.
This collaboration further strengthens the India–Belgium industrial partnership and reflects our commitment to working with governments and industrial partners to accelerate the transformation of industry and and contribute to strengthening India's self-reliance.