New independent research by Oxford Economics highlights $128.9 million GDP contribution in 2024 and projects $6.4 billion in additional exports by 2035
New independent research highlights the role of the Mundra International Container Terminal (MICT) is driving trade, unlocking economic value and supporting economic opportunity across the country.
Commissioned in 2003 as India’s first greenfield container terminal within a non-major port, MICT has grown into a critical gateway for containerised trade. The terminal has handled more than 19 million containers to date, including 1.4 million TEU in 2024, serving key industrial and consumption centres across western and northern India.
Today, MICT connects India to 73 global ports and handles ultra-large container vessels of up to 19,200 TEU, supported by multimodal rail connectivity across Gujarat, Rajasthan, Haryana, Punjab and Delhi. This has enhanced supply chain efficiency, enabling Indian businesses to compete more effectively in global markets.
The research, conducted by Oxford Economics, highlights the scale of MICT’s contribution to India’s trade ecosystem and regional economy, including:
- GDP contribution: MICT contributed $128.9 million to India’s GDP in 2024, including $118.8 million within Gujarat.
- Employment: The terminal supported approximately 1,880 jobs nationwide, including 1,240 in Gujarat, while driving economic activity across logistics, transportation, manufacturing, retail and services.
- Long-term economic impact: Enhanced shipping connectivity through MICT is forecast to drive an additional $6.4 billion in exports and a $9.2 billion GDP impact by 2035.
MICT is contributing to the development of a more inclusive and future-ready workforce, including:
- Women in logistics: Nearly one in four jobs associated with the terminal are held by women, reflecting strong participation across the wider ecosystem.
- Youth opportunities: Around 10% of employees are under the age of 25, highlighting growing opportunities for young talent in a traditionally male-dominated sector.
- Workforce inclusion: DP World continues to advance inclusivity across its operations while working towards a more diverse and representative workforce.
At DP World Mundra, faster and more reliable trade is being enabled alongside the creation of better jobs, stronger skills and expanded opportunities for businesses and communities. Through its integrated network of ports, terminals and multimodal logistics infrastructure, DP World is strengthening connectivity between India’s hinterland and coastal gateways, helping businesses access global markets more efficiently.
Hemant Kumar Ruia, Country Manager, DP World Subcontinent (India), said, “When infrastructure is built for scale, efficiency and connectivity, it becomes a powerful driver of both economic growth and social progress. At DP World Mundra, we are enabling faster, more reliable trade while creating better jobs, building skills and expanding opportunities for businesses and communities.”
The Oxford Economics report concludes that MICT’s impact extends far beyond port operations. By enabling trade, generating employment, supporting exports and investing in communities, DP World Mundra is playing a pivotal role in shaping sustainable economic growth and opportunity in Gujarat and across India. DP World continues to invest in the long-term development of communities around Mundra through education, scholarships and healthcare initiatives, including:
- Digital learning: Through the ‘Kal Ki Kaksha’ programme, implemented with Pratham Infotech Foundation, the company enabled digital learning for 3,643 students across 17 schools in 2024, with strong participation from girls.
- Financial assistance: The Pragati Scholarship Programme in partnership with Yuva Unstoppable, supports 237 girls, helping reduce dropout rates and promote continued education.
- Healthcare: Two Mobile Medical Vans in collaboration with the Wockhardt Foundation, deliver free medical services to around 20,000 people each year, focused on early diagnosis, treatment and community health awareness.
