Japan's MOL Plans Strategic Investment in Indian Logistics
- Japan’s MOL is set to invest in an Indian logistics startup as part of its non-marine diversification strategy.
- The company has already invested nearly Rs 2,000 crore in commercial real estate projects in Gurgaon and Chennai.
- MOL expressed interest in placing shipbuilding orders in India if local yards meet global quality and timelines.
Japan’s Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd (MOL), the world’s second-largest ship owner by fleet size, is set to make a strategic investment in an Indian logistics startup 'very soon', as part of its broader push to diversify into stable, non-marine revenue streams. The move follows MOL’s recent investment of just under Rs 2,000 crore for minority stakes in commercial real estate developments in Gurgaon and Chennai.
Captain Anand Jayaraman, Executive Officer for South Asia and the Middle East, confirmed the upcoming deal at a media interaction on Tuesday, noting that discussions with the logistics startup have concluded and an official announcement is expected shortly. He, however, declined to share the deal’s financial specifics.
This planned investment aligns with MOL’s evolving business strategy, which includes MOL Plus a corporate venture capital arm established in 2021 to invest in shipping and logistics startups and MOL Switch, launched in 2024 to support clean energy and sustainability ventures. MOL Plus has also set up a dedicated India desk to identify startup opportunities in the region.
“The focus for acquisition is definitely logistics”, said Capt. Jayaraman, adding that MOL prefers to co-invest rather than pursue full acquisitions. He also noted that clean tech startups may attract higher ticket sizes depending on their potential and relevance.
On the maritime front, MOL expressed interest in India’s emerging shipbuilding sector, viewing it as a promising alternative to traditional hubs like Japan, South Korea, and China. While ruling out direct investment in Indian shipyards, Capt. Jayaraman affirmed MOL’s willingness to place vessel orders locally, provided quality and delivery timelines are assured.
“If Indian shipyards can meet global standards, they could become a strong alternative when Chinese and Korean yards are full”, he remarked. MOL’s growing focus on India underscores the country’s rising importance in both logistics and shipbuilding on the global stage.
