Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd., led by billionaire Gautam Adani, is actively exploring port development opportunities in South Africa as part of a renewed international expansion strategy aimed at reinforcing its position in the global maritime sector.
“We are evaluating port projects in South Africa to boost our presence in Africa,” said Karan Adani, Managing Director of Adani Ports, in an interview with Bloomberg.
He added that the company is also assessing potential ventures in both East and West Africa.
This renewed global push follows a turbulent year for the Adani Group, marked by a $265 million bribery investigation by the U.S. Department of Justice.
The probe implicated Gautam Adani and several senior executives, though Adani has denied all allegations.
The investigation prompted several setbacks across key international markets. Kenya canceled $2.6 billion worth of contracts related to airports and power infrastructure, while Bangladesh moved to renegotiate a power supply agreement with the group.
Despite these challenges, international expansion remains a priority. Adani Ports aims to double the share of its overseas business to 15% by 2030.
The company already has port and logistics assets in Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Australia, and Israel.
South Africa, currently grappling with deteriorating rail and port infrastructure, has become an attractive prospect.
The country is undertaking efforts to modernize its logistics networks, which have been affecting its export competitiveness—presenting a strategic opening for Adani Ports.
Karan Adani also disclosed that the company has shelved plans to explore projects in Kenya but declined to elaborate further.
