Japan logistics major enters Indian container business via JV with ACTL

Joint venture to invest Rs 100 cr initially for licence procurement, buying container trains

The Indian container train sector is set to get a Japanese touch soon, with  logistics major Konoike Transport today announcing the forming of a joint venture with New Delhi-based Associated Container Terminals Ltd (ACTL).

The JV company, called Joshi Konoike Transport and Infrastructure, will invest at least Rs 100 crore in the initial stage for licence procurement and to buy container trains.   

Currently, the major private players in India’s private container business include Adani Logistics Ltd, Gateway Rail Freight Limited, Hind Terminals Ltd, India Infrastructure and Logistics Ltd. Konoike Trasport is a leading logistics major in Japan as well as countries like China, Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, Myanmar and Bangladesh.

“We already have licence to run container trains from National Capital region to West Coast ports like Mundra and Pipavav. In addition to this, we already have a terminal at Faridabad. We expect the Japanese tie up to bring in expertise and innovation in the sector,” said R R Joshi, chairman of ACTL.

“With India growing fast, we see great opportunities in the field of railways to expand. We have proven track record in various countries in this sector and want to replicate that in India,” said Takashi Tsuji, chairman, Konoike Trasport.