Adani Group Eyes Port Development In Bataan Province Of Philippines, Expanding Global Reach

Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Limited (APSEZ), a part of the globally diversified Adani Group, is eyeing to develop a port in Bataan province of Philippines, a statement issued by the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) said.

During a courtesy call with President Ferdinand R Marcos Jr at Malacanang, APSEZ managing director Karan Adani disclosed the company’s expansion plans.

“The company plans to develop a 25-meter-deep port that can accommodate Panamax vessels. The Adani Group, on the other hand, is planning to invest in ports, airports, power and defense,” stated the PCO in its announcement.

Panamax vessels denote ships sized to traverse the Panama Canal, typically ranging from 200 to 250 metres in length and having capacities of 50,000 to 80,000 deadweight tonnes (dwt).

According to the PCO, Adani underscored the stability in regulation and the business environment under the Marcos administration as pivotal factors driving investment interest in the Philippines.

“Your Excellency, as a private sector what we always look for is stability. Stability in the regulation, stability in the environment that we are operating in. That is what, as you said, you are providing,” Karan Adani conveyed to President Marcos during the discussion.

President Marcos welcomed APSEZ expansion plans in the Philippines, suggesting it may focus on ports handling agriculture products to enable the Philippines to eventually compete globally.

Marcos explained that the government is developing its gateways for tourists and business travellers, as well as for the country’s agriculture products to be moved around affordably and reliably.

Furthermore, he suggested that the company initially concentrate on regional operations, catering to domestic shipping needs before venturing into the international market.

Originally incorporated as Gujarat Adani Port Limited in May 1998, Adani Ports holds a dominant position in India's port sector, with a presence in all maritime states.

It is the largest port developer and operator in India, managing seven strategically positioned ports and terminals on the west coast, including Mundra, Tuna, Dahej, and Hazira in Gujarat, Mormugao in Goa, Dighi in Maharashtra, and Vizhinjam in Kerala.

Additionally, it manages seven ports and terminals along the East coast of India, including Haldia in West Bengal, Dhamra in Odisha, Gangavaram and Krishnapatnam in Andhra Pradesh, and Kattupalli and Ennore in Tamil Nadu, alongside Karaikal in Puducherry.

The company's scope extends beyond India; it's engaged in developing a transhipment port in Colombo, Sri Lanka, and holds ownership of the Haifa Port in Israel.

In the fiscal year 2024, this private giant handled nearly 27 per cent of the country's total cargo and around 44 per cent of container cargo.