The Adani Group has reportedly revived its plans for major investments in the United States, exploring opportunities in nuclear energy, utilities, and a potential East Coast port, according to a report by the Financial Times on March 2. Sources familiar with the matter indicate that the Gautam Adani-led conglomerate is cautiously reconsidering its expansion in the US, despite its founder being embroiled in a legal dispute.
Gautam Adani and several others are currently facing allegations of involvement in a $265 million bribery case linked to an Indian solar energy company. While the case had seemingly stalled Adani’s US investment plans, sources now suggest that the company is re-evaluating its approach, particularly after former President Donald Trump—who has been vocal about reducing corporate regulations—called for halting enforcement of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act in early February. This law, which penalizes companies for bribery abroad, has been central to the allegations against Adani. A person familiar with the group's thinking reportedly told FT, "With Trump’s arrival, we have reactivated some plans," although they admitted that the legal situation remains uncertain and could pose delays.
Adani originally pledged a $10 billion investment in the US following Trump's election victory last year, with projections of generating around 15,000 jobs. However, the bribery allegations led to a temporary pause in these expansion efforts. While sources indicate a renewed push, they also acknowledge that a final decision will depend on how the legal battle unfolds. Another insider reportedly stated, “We are clear about our intentions, but we will hold off until this matter is resolved.”
Despite its vast global presence, the Adani Group’s footprint in the US remains relatively small. Previous discussions with American firms about petrochemical projects in Texas did not materialize into significant agreements. However, analysts believe that if the legal case is dismissed, Adani could actively pursue his investment goals in the US. Michael Kugelman, a South Asia expert at the Wilson Center in Washington, told FT, “Should the charges be dismissed, Adani is likely to pursue his investment objectives in America.”
As of now, the Adani Group has not officially commented on the Financial Times report. The company has previously denied the bribery allegations, calling them "baseless." With legal uncertainties still looming, the group's US ambitions remain in a wait-and-watch phase, dependent on how the case progresses and potential shifts in the political and regulatory landscape.
