DP World Mundra terminal projected to add $9.2bn GDP by 2035

The Mundra International Container Terminal operated by DP World could contribute an additional $9.2 billion to India’s GDP by 2035 through enhanced shipping connectivity and trade growth, according to new research conducted by Oxford Economics.

The report said the terminal is also forecast to support an additional $6.4 billion in exports over the same period, underlining the growing role of the facility in India’s trade and logistics network.

Commissioned in 2003 as India’s first greenfield container terminal within a non-major port, the Mundra International Container Terminal has handled more than 19 million containers to date. In 2024, the facility handled 1.4 million TEU and served industrial and consumption centres across western and northern India.

The terminal currently connects India to 73 global ports and is capable of handling ultra-large container vessels of up to 19,200 TEU. The report noted that multimodal rail connectivity across Gujarat, Rajasthan, Haryana, Punjab and Delhi has improved supply chain efficiency and supported Indian businesses in accessing international markets.

According to the findings, the terminal contributed $128.9 million to India’s GDP in 2024, including $118.8 million within Gujarat. The study added that the facility supported around 1,880 jobs nationwide, including 1,240 jobs in Gujarat, with economic activity generated across logistics, transportation, manufacturing, retail and services sectors.

The report also highlighted workforce participation trends linked to the terminal’s operations. Nearly one in four jobs associated with the terminal are held by women, while around 10% of employees are below the age of 25. The company said it continues to focus on workforce inclusion and diversity across its operations.

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 stated that the impact of the Mundra terminal extends beyond port operations through its role in enabling trade, generating employment, supporting exports and contributing to regional economic development in Gujarat and across India.

The company is also continuing community development programmes around Mundra through education and healthcare initiatives. Under the ‘Kal Ki Kaksha’ programme implemented with Pratham Infotech Foundation, DP World supported digital learning for 3,643 students across 17 schools in 2024. The Pragati Scholarship Programme, implemented with Yuva Unstoppable, is supporting 237 girls to continue their education.

In healthcare, two Mobile Medical Vans operated in partnership with the Wockhardt Foundation are providing free medical services to around 20,000 people annually, with a focus on diagnosis, treatment and health awareness programmes in surrounding communities.