By: Logistics Middle east

DP World has pledged a further $5 billion investment in India to expand its integrated supply chain network, covering ports, logistics and inland transport infrastructure.

The commitment adds to the $3 billion invested in the country over the past three decades and focuses on strengthening multimodal connectivity to support both exports and domestic trade.

Announced at India Maritime Week 2025, the investment accompanies five new Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) aimed at driving industry partnerships across coastal shipping, shipbuilding, ship repair, skills development and port-side innovation.

Investment to accelerate multimodal and logistics growth

Sultan Ahmed bin Sulayem, Group Chairman and CEO of DP World, said the company has been part of India’s “growth story for nearly three decades” and the new funding “reaffirm[s] our commitment to advancing India’s maritime and logistics industry and cementing the nation’s position in global trade.”

He said the initiatives are designed to lower logistics costs, support local manufacturing and expand market access across the country.

A second statement from bin Sulayem highlighted alignment with key national infrastructure programmes, stating, “We are fully aligned with India’s national priorities like PM Gati Shakti, Sagarmala, and the Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision 2047.” He noted that shared goals are helping India “chart out a bold course toward global maritime leadership.”

DP World’s network in India currently spans more than 200 locations and supports over 24,000 direct and indirect jobs.

Maritime MoUs target efficiency and port-side innovation

The MoUs signed at India Maritime Week include initiatives to boost coastal shipping, expand ship repair capacity, enhance maritime skills and introduce new freight mobility technology.

Key agreements include an MoU between Unifeeder, a DP World company, and Sagarmala Finance Corporation Limited to advance green coastal and short-sea shipping services. Another agreement between Cochin Shipyard Limited and Drydocks World aims to expand and operate the International Ship Repair Facility in Kochi.

A separate tripartite MoU between Cochin Shipyard Limited, Drydocks World and the Centre of Excellence in Maritime and Shipbuilding focuses on developing India’s shipbuilding and repair talent.

In addition, Cochin Port Authority and DP World will upgrade handling facilities at the International Container Transshipment Terminal, while Deendayal Port Authority, DP World and Nevomo will collaborate on a 750-metre MagRail Booster pilot.

For UAE stakeholders, the expansion demonstrates DP World’s position as a major Gulf operator with long-term strategic interests in India’s trade and port-side logistics corridors.