IIFT gets approval to open new off-campus centre in Gujarat

In May 2025, the Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT) received crucial approval from the Ministry of Education to set up an off-campus centre in GIFT City, Gandhinagar, Gujarat. This development marks a significant advancement in higher education for the region, with the new centre projected to enhance the educational offerings related to international trade. The initiative aligns with the University Grants Commission (UGC) regulations established in 2023 and was made possible after IIFT completed specific requirements outlined in a Letter of Intent earlier in the year. These requirements, crucial for receiving the approval, included presenting a thorough development roadmap to create a multidisciplinary institute capable of accommodating over 1,000 students. Additionally, IIFT had to demonstrate that it could employ qualified faculty, implement detailed academic programmes, and prepare plans for establishing a permanent campus that would prominently feature a state-of-the-art library. Meeting these stipulated conditions was essential for gaining formal recognition under Section 3 of the UGC Act of 1956. Union Minister of Commerce & Industry, Piyush Goyal, praised IIFT for this achievement, hinting at its potential to contribute significantly to training talent in its prominent MBA (International Business) programme and various short-term courses related to international trade. This approval creates an opportunity for students to immerse themselves in diversified academic experiences and research initiatives. The new centre will occupy the 16th and 17th floors of GIFT Tower 2, aiming to leverage GIFT City’s status as India's emerging financial hub. By offering specialized programmes and research opportunities in international trade, the IIFT centre is expected to cater to a growing demand for higher education in this field, thereby fostering skilled professionals equipped to navigate the complexities of global commerce.