Gift City

Gujarat International Finance Tec-City: Unwrapping Higher Economic Growth

20 Jan 20248 Min Readshare-icon Share

Gujarat International Finance Tec-City: Unwrapping Higher Economic Growth


Gujarat International Finance Tec-City (GIFT City)—India’s first operational smart city and International Financial Services Centre (IFSC)—is set up under the Special Economic Zone Act of 2005. It is India’s first operational greenfield smart city and a planned business district rapidly evolving into a global financial centre on the lines of financial centres across the world.


Strategically located between Ahmedabad and Gandhinagar, GIFT City is poised to become a global financial hub comparable to renowned cities like Singapore, Dubai, and London. It offers a glimpse into the future of urban development, seamlessly integrating advanced infrastructure, sustainability, and business-friendly environments.


GIFT City: The Premier Business Hub for International and Domestic Operations


GIFT City is designed as a comprehensive business hub catering to both international and domestic operations. With its strategic location and state-of-the-art infrastructure, GIFT City offers diverse platforms for businesses to thrive. Here’s a closer look at the various business platforms available in GIFT City:


1. Domestic Tariff Area (DTA)


The Domestic Tariff Area provides a conducive environment for businesses focused on Indian operations. Companies in this area benefit from:


  • Favourable Regulatory Framework: Simplified compliance processes and government incentives to encourage growth.
  • Cost Efficiency: Reduced operational costs with competitive tariffs, making it an attractive option for domestic enterprises.
  • Robust Infrastructure: High-quality facilities and amenities that support seamless business operations.

Featured

2. International Financial Services Centre (IFSC)


The IFSC at GIFT City is tailored for the export of financial services, making it a vital hub for global finance. Key features include:


  • Global Benchmarking: Adopting international standards in financial regulations and services.
  • Wide Range of Services: Offering banking, insurance, capital markets, and wealth management services, facilitating global financial transactions.
  • Tax Incentives: Attractive tax policies to encourage foreign investments and international operations.

3. Multi-Services Special Economic Zone (SEZ)


GIFT City hosts a Multi-Services SEZ that promotes various sectors and services. Benefits include:


  • Diverse Business Opportunities: The SEZ accommodates a range of industries, including IT, finance, and manufacturing.
  • Export Incentives: Companies operating within the SEZ enjoy benefits related to export regulations and tax exemptions.
  • Integrated Development: A well-planned ecosystem that supports collaboration and innovation among businesses.

4. Additional Services


In addition to the main business platforms, GIFT City provides a range of other services to enhance the operational capabilities of businesses:


  • Support Services: Access to legal consultancy and technology support to facilitate business operations.
  • Networking Opportunities: Regular events and forums that encourage collaboration and knowledge sharing among businesses.
  • Business Development Programs: Initiatives aimed at helping companies expand their reach and optimize their operations.

5. Talent Availability at GIFT City


GIFT City benefits from a strategic location near premier educational institutions, ensuring businesses have access to a skilled and diverse talent pool. The city’s supportive infrastructure enhances both recruitment and retention efforts.


  • Proximity to Educational Institutions: GIFT City is surrounded by leading universities offering programs in finance, engineering, technology, and management, providing businesses access to a wide range of highly qualified professionals.
  • Diverse Skill Sets: Educational institutions offer specialized training in various industries, ensuring companies can find employees with the specific expertise they need.
  • Low Attrition Rates: GIFT City’s excellent work-life balance and living standards lead to lower employee attrition, providing businesses with a stable long-term workforce.

Infrastructure Overview at GIFT City


GIFT City is setting a benchmark in urban infrastructure, aiming to enhance the business environment and quality of life for its residents. The integration of innovative technologies and global best practices ensures that GIFT City stands at par with international standards. Here’s a detailed look at the key infrastructural components:


1. Utility Tunnel Power Infrastructure


GIFT City houses essential utilities like electricity and water in an underground tunnel, ensuring efficient delivery and reducing surface clutter for a cleaner, more organized urban environment.


2. India’s First District Cooling System


This centralized system delivers energy-efficient cooling by distributing chilled water, lowering energy consumption and costs while enhancing sustainability and comfort.


3. Smart Water Infrastructure


GIFT City’s smart water system optimizes usage, reduces waste, and ensures a reliable water supply, contributing to efficient resource management and sustainability.


4. Infrastructural Advantage


GIFT City combines advanced technology and quality infrastructure, creating an ideal environment for businesses and enhancing the living standards of residents.


5. City Command and Control Centre (C4)


The C4 integrates city services like traffic and emergency management, ensuring efficient operations and quick responses to urban challenges.


6. India’s First Automated Waste Management


Automated waste systems in GIFT City enhance efficiency and sustainability by reducing human intervention, optimizing waste disposal, and supporting green initiatives.


Target Industries and Business Areas


A. Target Industries


GIFT City is well-suited for various industries and business areas, including :


  • Banking and Finance: Domestic banking and finance companies can leverage the city's advanced infrastructure and regulatory support to enhance their operations.
  • Insurance Companies: With a robust framework for insurance services, GIFT City provides a strategic advantage for insurance firms.
  • IT and ITES: The city is an attractive destination for IT and IT-enabled services, offering facilities for software development, customer support, and more.
  • Research Organizations: GIFT City supports R&D initiatives, providing a conducive environment for innovation and development.
  • Pharmaceuticals and Biotechnology: Companies in these sectors can benefit from the integrated development and support services available in GIFT City.
  • Manufacturing and Engineering: The city also caters to industries like automobiles, textiles, and engineering, providing the necessary infrastructure for manufacturing operations.

B. Business Areas


GIFT City is designed to accommodate a variety of business models, including:


  • Back Office Operations: Ideal for companies looking to set up administrative and support functions.
  • E-Commerce: A strategic location for e-commerce businesses seeking operational efficiency.
  • Corporate Offices: Suitable for companies wishing to establish their headquarters or regional offices.
  • Processing Centres: Facilities designed for efficient processing of transactions and services.
  • Global Delivery Centres: Offering support for international operations and service delivery.
  • Shared Services: A collaborative space for companies to share resources and reduce costs.
  • Innovation Centres: Designed to foster creativity and collaboration among businesses and entrepreneurs.
  • Support Offices: Providing administrative and logistical support for various operations.
  • Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) and Knowledge Process Outsourcing (KPO): Catering to businesses that require outsourced services in both operational and knowledge-based areas.
  • Maritime Cluster: Supporting businesses in the maritime industry with dedicated facilities and services.
  • Capital Market Services: Enabling firms to engage in trading, investment, and other capital market activities.

Conclusion


GIFT City stands as a beacon of India's economic future, integrating cutting-edge infrastructure, sustainability, and global business appeal. Its comprehensive offerings and business-friendly environment position it as a crucial global financial hub, fostering innovation and growth across multiple industries while driving India's ascent on the world stage.

More

Insights

View all Arrow icon
Tax Planning | 10 min

A CFOs guide to tax planning for corporates

Effective tax planning in corporations can result in significant tax savings. This...

Card Link Icon
Tax Planning | 10 min

Tax Planning for HNIs

If you are a High Net Worth Individual (HNI), tax planning is important for you....

Card Link Icon
Legacy Planning | 10 min

Navigating Property Title Deeds: What Every Investor Should Know

Real estate is a cornerstone of a diversified portfolio, often endorsed...

Card Link Icon