Our Bureau
London
Billionaire Gautam Adani-led Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone (APSEZ) is exploring the acquisition of Associated British Ports (ABP), the United Kingdom’s largest port operator, in a move that could mark the conglomerate’s biggest international infrastructure deal and its first major investment in Britain. The proposed transaction, which is still at a preliminary stage, is expected to value ABP at more than £10 billion, according to reports.
ABP operates 21 ports across the UK and handles nearly a quarter of the country’s seaborne trade, making it one of Britain’s most critical transport and logistics assets. Reports indicate that Canadian pension funds, which together own a majority stake in the company, are considering a sale, while other shareholders may also look to divest their holdings.
However, APSEZ has not yet confirmed the proposed acquisition.
The development comes as Adani Ports continues to strengthen its global footprint. The company already operates ports and terminals in countries including Israel, Sri Lanka, Tanzania and Australia, while recently outlining plans to expand its presence in Europe through investments in offshore marine services.
The speculation also coincided with APSEZ reporting a strong first-quarter performance. The company posted a more than 9% increase in consolidated net profit to ₹36.2 billion, driven by robust cargo volumes and higher domestic demand. Revenue from operations rose 19% year-on-year, reinforcing its position as India’s largest private port operator.
If pursued, the acquisition would significantly enhance Adani Ports’ presence in Europe and provide strategic access to one of the world’s most established maritime logistics networks, further advancing the group’s ambitions of becoming a leading global ports and logistics operator.