Asia’s richest man eyes bid for UK port group

By the Editorial Team · Thursday, July 30, 2026

Gautam Adani is reportedly exploring a bid to acquire Associated British Ports, which manages 21 major UK ports handling about a quarter of the nation’s seaborne trade. This acquisition would mark Adani’s first UK investment and significantly expand India’s influence in critical British infrastructure amid concerns over his group’s controversial track record and environmental stance.

Gautam Adani, Asia’s wealthiest individual and chairman of the Adani Group, is reportedly considering a bid to acquire Associated British Ports (ABP), Britain’s largest ports operator. This potential move would mark Adani’s first investment in the United Kingdom and could bring 21 of the country's key ports under the control of his conglomerate. The ports collectively handle around a quarter of the UK’s seaborne trade, with operations including major hubs such as Immingham in Lincolnshire and the cruise terminal at Southampton.

The interest in ABP arises amid plans by two Canadian pension funds, the Canada Pension Plan Investment Board and the Ontario Municipal Employees Retirement System, to sell their sizeable stakes in the company—34 percent and 33 percent respectively. ABP, valued at over £10 billion, also has other significant shareholders including Singapore’s sovereign wealth fund GIC and Kuwait’s Wren House Infrastructure. Asset manager Hermes, holding about 6 percent, may also be looking to divest its share.

Sources familiar with the discussions indicate that any deal involving Adani remains at an early stage and is unlikely to conclude within the current year. The bidders may explore partnership structures for the acquisition. Adani Group has stated it does not comment on market speculation but continues to evaluate opportunities aligned with its long-term strategy. ABP described the sale process as a matter for its shareholders.

The Adani Group is a vast infrastructure conglomerate with a presence across ports, energy, mining, media, and utilities, and operates internationally, including in Israel and Sri Lanka. The group's expansion aligns with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s development agenda, aiming to strengthen infrastructure sectors globally. However, Gautam Adani has faced a series of controversies and legal challenges in recent years. These include allegations of stock manipulation and bribery raised by short seller reports and investigations in the United States related to bribery and sanctions violations. Some of these cases were settled or dropped in 2025 and 2026, following financial settlements and commitments by Adani.

In the UK, Adani has attracted attention for his environmental record, notably concerning the Carmichael coal mine in Australia, which has drawn long-standing protests over environmental impacts. His group's involvement in the UK’s green energy sector also came under scrutiny after disclosures that its renewables unit sponsored the green energy exhibit at London’s Science Museum.

The potential acquisition of ABP would enhance India’s footprint in critical UK infrastructure, including ports that support offshore wind farm development—a key component of the UK’s net-zero climate objectives. Observers note that such a purchase carries strategic significance but could generate debate given the Adani Group’s contentious reputation internationally. The Canadian pension funds and Adani Group declined to comment further on the ongoing discussions.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.