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Gujarat's Maritime Revolution: Unlocking Export Potential Through Ambitious Port Infrastructure Development

Strategic Insights

— 2 min read

Gujarat's coastline, boasting a 1,600-kilometre stretch, has enabled the state to dominate India's export scene, capturing 30.7 per cent of the nation's total exports in 2025. With a robust port infrastructure comprising 49 ports, including the major Deendayal Port (Kandla), Gujarat handles approximately 41 per cent of India's maritime cargo. The state's strategic positioning has catapulted it to the top of India's export champions.

Key Takeaways:

  • Gujarat operates 49 ports, including 1 major port, Deendayal Port (Kandla), and 48 non-major ports administered by the Gujarat Maritime Board (GMB), handling approximately 41 per cent of India's maritime cargo.
  • Deendayal Port has contributed significantly to India's major ports handling 855 million tonnes of cargo in FY 2024-25, a 4.3 per cent year-on-year increase from 819 million tonnes in the previous financial year.
  • The Next-Generation Container Terminal at Tuna Tekra, set to become operational by 2027, is designed to enhance trade connectivity and capacity specifically for export-oriented cargo, incorporating cutting-edge technology and operational efficiency measures.
  • The Union Budget 2025-26 introduced a Maritime Development Fund worth Rs 25,000 crore to enhance port infrastructure and maritime competitiveness nationwide.
  • Gujarat's export growth in 2025 is significantly boosted by enhanced multimodal connectivity that seamlessly links ports to industrial hubs and international markets.
  • The state's port infrastructure development has catalysed growth across multiple export sectors, with each benefiting from enhanced logistic capabilities and operational efficiency.
  • Pharmaceuticals, gems and jewellery, chemicals and petrochemicals, textiles, and engineering goods have seen significant growth through strategic partnerships and improved port facilities.
  • The Kandla Special Economic Zone (SEZ) accounts for over 71 per cent of India's entire SEZ exports, which stood at US$ 2.97 billion in 2024-25.
  • Adani Ports and SEZ Ltd. operates Mundra Port, India's largest private port, and has made significant investments in the Tuna Tekra project, demonstrating the private sector's confidence in Gujarat's maritime potential.
  • The state has implemented green initiatives including renewable energy adoption in port operations, comprehensive waste management systems, and measures to protect marine ecosystems.
  • Gujarat's commitment to LNG bunkering and other green practices positions the state favourably for future export growth as environmental considerations become more critical in international trade.

Statistics:

  • India's major ports, including Deendayal Port, handled 855 million tonnes of cargo in FY 2024-25, a 4.3 per cent year-on-year increase from 819 million tonnes in the previous financial year.
  • Deendayal Port's container traffic surged by 10 per cent, fertiliser handling increased by 13 per cent, and petroleum, oil, and lubricants cargo grew by 3 per cent in FY 2024-25.
  • The Union Budget 2025-26 allocated a Maritime Development Fund worth Rs 25,000 crore to enhance port infrastructure and maritime competitiveness nationwide.
  • Gujarat's export-oriented industries, such as pharmaceuticals, gems and jewellery, and chemicals and petrochemicals, contribute significantly to the state's GDP growth.
  • Gujarat attracted US$ 1,020 million in foreign direct investment from April to June 2024, partly attributable to port-related industrial growth and enhanced export capabilities.

Sources:

  • Article from The Times of India, India's maritime powerhouse Gujarat captures 30.7% of national exports in 2025.
  • Ajit Verma, Economics Researcher, Gujarat's dominance in India's export ecosystem is fundamentally anchored in its robust port infrastructure.
  • India's major ports, including Deendayal Port, handled 855 million tonnes of cargo in FY 2024-25, a 4.3 per cent year-on-year increase from 819 million tonnes in the previous financial year.
  • Prince Sinha, Merchant Navy Official, Gujarat's maritime revolution has catapulted the state to the top of India's export champions.

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