DP World’s Mundra could deliver US$9.2B India GDP impact by 2035, Oxford Economics finds

INDIA – Mundra International Container Terminal (MICT) contributed US$128.9 million to India’s GDP in 2024 and could drive US$9.2 billion in GDP impact by 2035, according to new research by Oxford Economics.

MICT has handled more than 19 million containers to date, including 1.4 million TEUs in 2024, serving key industrial and consumption centres across western and northern India.

Trade Connectivity and Economic Projections

MICT connects India to 73 global ports and handles ultra-large container vessels of up to 19,200 TEUs, supported by multimodal rail connectivity across Gujarat, Rajasthan, Haryana, Punjab, and Delhi.

Enhanced shipping connectivity through MICT is forecast to drive an additional US$6.4 billion in exports by 2035.

In addition, the terminal supported approximately 1,880 jobs nationwide in 2024, including 1,240 in Gujarat, driving economic activity across logistics, transportation, manufacturing, retail, and services.

For fresh produce exporters and logistics operators, MICT’s rail connectivity to inland hubs such as Delhi and Punjab reduces transit times for perishable cargo moving from farm to port.

Moreover, the facility’s ability to handle ultra-large vessels also means more reefers capacity for time-sensitive agricultural exports.

Workforce Inclusion and Social Progress

Nearly one in four jobs associated with the terminal are held by women, reflecting strong participation across the wider ecosystem.

Around 10% of employees are under age 25, highlighting growing opportunities for young talent in a traditionally male-dominated sector.

Additionally, through the ‘Kal Ki Kaksha’ programme, DP World enabled digital learning for 3,643 students across 17 schools in 2024. The Pragati Scholarship Programme supports 237 girls, helping reduce dropout rates.

Two mobile medical vans deliver free medical services to approximately 20,000 people annually.

Direct Statement from Leadership

Hemant Kumar Ruia, Country Manager for 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.”

More importantly, as DP World continues investments in education and healthcare around Mundra, the terminal’s role extends beyond logistics to community development.

Finally, by 2035, MICT’s cumulative economic impact could reach US$9.2 billion, reinforcing the strategic value of integrated port-rail infrastructure for agricultural trade routes.

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