FutureCoal is challenging COP31 negotiators to take a more pragmatic approach to climate action, recognising coal’s continuing role in energy security and industrial development while advancing technologies that can deliver measurable emissions reductions.

RECOGNISING COAL’S CONTINUING ROLE

Ahead of COP31 in Türkiye, taking place between 9th and 20th November 2026, FutureCoal has urged climate negotiators to recognise the importance of energy security, affordability, and industrial development alongside emissions-reduction ambitions.

In the lead-up to COP31, FutureCoal has challenged climate negotiators to move beyond political declarations and address the practical realities shaping global energy systems, arguing that energy security, affordability, and industrial development must remain central to climate discussions.

This year’s COP summit comes amid renewed attention to reliable energy supplies and the technologies needed to balance economic development with environmental performance. However, FutureCoal CEO Michelle Manook believes international climate negotiations risk repeating the shortcomings of previous summits.

Reflecting on the progress made since COP26 in Glasgow, Manook warns that discussions have too often prioritised political language over meaningful outcomes.

“Five years ago, following COP26 in Glasgow, I warned that climate negotiations were becoming an exercise in wordsmithing rather than delivering meaningful outcomes. Every summit since has reinforced that concern.”

For FutureCoal, addressing this imbalance means recognising coal’s continuing role in electricity generation and industrial development, whilst placing greater emphasis on improving how the resource is extracted, processed, and used.

RETHINKING THE ROLE OF COAL IN ENERGY SECURITY

Manook argues that energy security should never have been separated from the wider climate conversation, especially given the importance of affordable, dependable energy to industrial economies and developing nations.

“Energy security should never have been taken off the table. Coal remains fundamental to electricity generation and industrial development across much of the world. The question should not be how quickly we eliminate it, but how we improve the way it is mined, processed and used.”

In line with this position, FutureCoal is calling for broader access to finance and regulatory approvals for technologies that can deliver measurable emissions reductions. These include carbon capture and storage, higher-efficiency generation, and methane abatement.

The organisation also supports developing renewables alongside coal as part of diversified energy systems, arguing that investment decisions should be guided by environmental performance rather than fuel type alone.

ADVANCING HIGHER-VALUE COAL APPLICATIONS

Beyond electricity generation, FutureCoal highlights coal technologies’ potential to support industrial production and reduce exposure to volatile international markets.

China, for example, is converting domestic coal into chemicals, fertilisers, and synthetic fuels, while India is advancing coal gasification to strengthen domestic industrial production. South Africa, meanwhile, has used coal-derived fuels and chemicals for decades.

These developments reflect FutureCoal’s Sustainable Coal Stewardship (SCS) strategy, which promotes greater efficiency, emissions management, and higher-value applications across the coal value chain.

Through this approach, the organisation advocates for a broader consideration of coal technologies, focusing on opportunities to improve industrial processes and manage emissions rather than viewing the resource exclusively through the lens of electricity generation.

BRINGING INDUSTRY INTO THE CLIMATE CONVERSATION

As COP31 approaches, FutureCoal believes greater collaboration between policymakers, industry, engineers, and technology developers will be essential to translating climate ambitions into practical outcomes.

The summit’s guiding principles of “Dialogue, Consensus, and Action” provide an opportunity to encourage more inclusive discussions, particularly around the needs of developing economies where access to reliable and affordable energy remains essential.

Manook also reiterates FutureCoal’s longstanding position that countries should retain the flexibility to pursue energy solutions suited to their individual circumstances.

“Since the Paris Agreement in 2015, FutureCoal has consistently advocated for the recognition of all fuels and all technologies. Countries must have the freedom to pursue solutions suited to their national circumstances.

“If COP31 is serious about turning dialogue into action, it must bring industry into the conversation and recognise the technologies already being developed and deployed. A more inclusive approach offers a stronger foundation for meaningful climate action.”

Ultimately, FutureCoal is calling for a more pragmatic and collaborative approach to international climate negotiations, one that recognises the complexities of global energy systems while placing greater emphasis on technological development, industrial requirements, and measurable environmental progress.

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GEP’s latest Global Supply Chain Volatility Index reveals a sharp rise in precautionary stockpiling across North America and Europe, as manufacturers prepare for potential shortages, higher material prices and rising transportation costs.

October 2026 Key Regional Findings

• ASIA:Index rose to 1.67, from 1.49, signaling the greatest degree of pressure on Asia’s supply network in four months.
• NORTH AMERICA: Index ticks lower to 1.03, from 1.13, but North American manufacturers report greater safety stockpiling and backlog accumulation due to shortages.
• EUROPE:Index rises to 0.78, from 0.66, reflecting growth in purchasing and inventories. Germany was a key driver of these trends.
• UK:Index drops to a three-month low of 0.39, from 0.59, signaling another sharp climbdown in supply-chain pressures for U.K. manufacturers.

GEP Reports Surge in Manufacturing Stockpiling

The indicator tracking precautionary stockpiling among North American manufacturers more than doubled in October, according to the latest GEP Global Supply Chain Volatility Index.

European manufacturers also increased their inventory buffers, with Germany contributing significantly to the rise in purchasing activity.

The October 2026 report, based on surveys of approximately 27,000 businesses across more than 40 countries, found that manufacturers were buying additional materials to protect against potential shortages and further price increases.

Manufacturers Accelerate Stockpiling

Precautionary stockpiling reached historically high levels globally, with North American manufacturers reporting their strongest inventory-building activity in five months.

The increase comes despite a moderation in global purchasing growth, raising questions about how long the current demand for manufacturing inputs can continue.

John Piatek, Vice President, Consulting at GEP, said:

“Manufacturers are increasingly concerned about what’s ahead, particularly inflation and the risk of renewed supply disruptions. They’re responding by building larger inventory buffers to protect production and manage future costs.  The concern is what happens next. This additional purchasing is supporting manufacturing activity today, but it also ties up working capital. Once inventories are built, purchasing could slow, creating a drag on manufacturing and the wider economy in 2027.”

Global Supply Chain Volatility Index

Asia recorded the highest regional index reading in October at 1.67, up from 1.49 in September, indicating the greatest pressure on its supply network in four months.

Europe’s index rose from 0.66 to 0.78, reflecting stronger purchasing activity and inventory accumulation, particularly in Germany.

North America’s reading eased slightly from 1.13 to 1.03, although manufacturers reported increased safety stockpiling and backlogs linked to shortages.

Meanwhile, the UK’s index fell from 0.59 to 0.39, reaching a three-month low as supply chain pressures continued to ease.

A positive index reading indicates that supply chain capacity is being stretched, with higher values reflecting greater pressure.

Purchasing activity remained resilient globally, with the US, China and Germany among the main contributors to growth. However, overall supply chain pressures eased as material and labour shortages became less pronounced.

Transportation Costs Rise Again

Global transportation costs increased for the second consecutive month, with the transportation cost index reaching a four-month high as oil prices rose throughout October.

Material shortages remained above their long-term average for the eighth consecutive month, although reports of shortages were at their lowest level since March.

Oil, electronic and electrical components, and metals were among the materials most frequently reported as being in short supply.

Labour shortages also eased, with reports of manufacturing backlogs caused by staffing constraints falling to their lowest level since February 2025.

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Jabil has launched an integrated procurement and supply chain services portfolio, combining five specialist businesses with its global network of more than 40,000 suppliers to help customers manage sourcing risks and supply disruption.

Jabil Expands Procurement Services

Jabil has brought five specialist businesses together under a new procurement and supply chain services portfolio, offering customers access to more than 40,000 suppliers worldwide.

The offering combines ProcureAbility, Retronix, ID8 Global, Velocity Electronics and Rebound Electronics with Jabil’s existing procurement, manufacturing and supply chain expertise.

Customers can draw on 3,500 procurement and supply chain professionals for services including sourcing, procurement consulting, component recovery, inventory management, logistics and distribution.

The launch comes as businesses face continued pressure from electronic component shortages, tariffs, geopolitical uncertainty and supply chain volatility.

Five Businesses, One Portfolio

Jabil has expanded its procurement capabilities through acquisitions and partnerships over the past three years.

ProcureAbility, acquired in 2023, provides procurement consulting and managed services, while Retronix, also acquired that year, specialises in component recovery, authenticity testing and reuse.

The 2025 acquisitions of Velocity Electronics and Rebound Electronics strengthened Jabil’s global electronic component sourcing, independent distribution and inventory management capabilities.

ID8 Global, established in 2024 as a joint venture with Cyferd, adds a generative artificial intelligence (AI) platform for procurement, logistics and supply chain management.

Tackling Sourcing Challenges

The combined portfolio is intended to give customers greater flexibility when sourcing critical components, particularly during periods of restricted supply.

Frank McKay, Senior Vice President and Chief Supply Chain Officer at Jabil, said:

“We’re giving our customers more options, better visibility, and stronger support as they work to secure critical supply and build long-term operational resilience. These acquisitions strengthen the way we support customers in a market that’s only getting more complex. They expand our global electronic component capabilities and supply chain services, but more importantly, they give more businesses access to Jabil’s supply chain and procurement expertise, supplier network, and operational discipline.”

AI and Supply Chain Intelligence

Through ID8 Global, Jabil is introducing AI-powered tools to support procurement decisions, sourcing and complex logistics operations.

The portfolio also includes component lifecycle services from Retronix, covering recovery, reballing, retinning and authenticity testing to extend the usable life of electronic components.

Jabil will showcase the combined services at Electronica 2026 in Munich, Germany, from 10 to 13 November.

Visitors will be able to see live demonstrations of ID8 Global’s AI technology, alongside interactive displays covering procurement services, component recovery and reuse, and market intelligence.

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Hitachi Construction Machinery is preparing to transform into LANDCROS in April 2027, launching a global campaign to introduce its vision of delivering ‘Solutions Beyond Machinery’.

A NEW GLOBAL BRAND

Hitachi Construction Machinery is preparing for a significant new chapter, announcing a global brand campaign ahead of its planned transition to LANDCROS Corporation on April 1, 2027.

The campaign aims to raise awareness of the LANDCROS name among stakeholders worldwide, while building understanding of the company’s ambitions, values, and the solutions it intends to deliver.

Beginning November 2, four key graphics will be unveiled to communicate the new brand’s central message, ‘Solutions Beyond Machinery’, with a gradual rollout across the markets in which the company operates.

The initiative will reach countries and regions worldwide, including Southeast Asia, Oceania, and Latin America, reflecting the global scope of the company’s ambitions as it prepares to adopt its new identity.

SOLUTIONS BEYOND MACHINERY

Since introducing its first mechanical excavator in 1950, Hitachi Construction Machinery has spent more than 75 years establishing itself as a leading construction and mining machinery manufacturer, building a reputation for delivering reliable solutions.

Now, as LANDCROS, the company intends to build on this heritage while evolving beyond the traditional role of a machinery supplier. Its new brand message reflects a commitment to addressing the real challenges facing customers, construction sites, and society through solutions developed in collaboration with partners.

Three core principles underpin this vision: Reliability, Openness, and Professionalism.

Reliability reflects the Japanese manufacturing excellence and global sales and service network that the company has developed over decades. Openness represents its commitment to collaboration with partners both inside and outside the organisation, while Professionalism is rooted in specialist expertise and a deep understanding of worksites and customer requirements.

Together, these principles will shape how LANDCROS approaches the changing needs of the construction and mining industries, positioning the business as a solutions provider extending beyond the machinery itself.

BUILDING THE NEXT GENERATION OF SOLUTIONS

Central to LANDCROS’s future ambitions is developing next-generation construction machinery that incorporates artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, sensing, and communication technologies.

However, the company’s vision extends beyond equipment innovation. It also aims to provide integrated support encompassing services and digital solutions, helping customers maintain stable machine operations while improving safety and productivity across worksites.

Through these developments, LANDCROS intends to create new value beyond the traditional boundaries of the construction machinery industry, combining advanced technologies with its established manufacturing, sales, and service capabilities.

The transition therefore represents an evolution of the company’s existing strengths rather than a departure from its heritage, with its longstanding customer relationships and reputation for reliability remaining central to its identity.

A LEGACY BUILT ON TRUST

Commenting on the transition, Masafumi Senzaki, President and COO of Hitachi Construction Machinery, emphasises the importance of maintaining the trust established throughout the company’s history while adapting to increasingly complex customer requirements.

“For more than 75 years, we have worked closely with customers at worksites around the world, continuously strengthening our Japanese manufacturing capabilities and our global sales and service capabilities. The unwavering trust we have built along the way will remain at the heart of who we are, even as we become LANDCROS,” he says.

Senzaki also highlights the importance of listening closely to customers, demonstrating professionalism through a thorough understanding of worksites, and embracing openness by connecting with a wider network of partners.

He describes “Solutions Beyond Machinery” as an expression of the company’s determination to move beyond conventional industry boundaries, create new value alongside customers, and shape the future of worksites.

As April 2027 approaches, Hitachi Construction Machinery will continue developing LANDCROS as a global brand built on more than 75 years of experience, with an ambition to deliver innovative solutions that extend well beyond machinery.

The post Hitachi Construction Machinery Unveils LANDCROS Brand Campaign appeared first on APAC Outlook Magazine.

Fortescue has signed its first external power purchase agreement, securing a 20-year deal to supply renewable electricity to PLS Group’s Pilgangoora lithium operation as it expands its Green Grid infrastructure across Western Australia’s Pilbara region.

Fortescue Expands into Mining Energy Supply

Fortescue has taken a major step towards becoming a regional energy supplier, signing its first power purchase agreement (PPA) with lithium producer PLS Group.

Under the 20-year agreement, Fortescue will supply a minimum of 325 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of electricity annually to PLS’ Pilgangoora Operation in Western Australia’s Pilbara region, with supply expected to begin in 2029.

The deal makes PLS the first external customer for Fortescue’s Green Grid, originally developed to power its own mining, rail and port operations.

Fortescue Metals CEO Dino Otranto said the agreement demonstrates the commercial potential of the company’s renewable energy infrastructure.

“We started building the Green Grid for our own operations, but we could see strong demand for cheap, green, reliable power across the Pilbara and an opportunity to supply other customers too.

“This agreement is an important first step and cements our role as an energy supplier. It will help power PLS’ expansion, support economic growth in the region, and create a new, long-term revenue stream for Fortescue.”

Supporting PLS’ AUD$1.9 Billion Lithium Expansion

Fortescue will construct an approximately 25-kilometre, 220-kilovolt transmission line connecting Pilgangoora to the Green Grid, supporting PLS’ recently approved AUD$1.9 billion expansion.

PLS will fund the entire transmission line and own approximately 20 kilometres, with Fortescue retaining the remainder.

The annual electricity commitment is equivalent to the consumption of around 45,000 Australian homes.

PLS Managing Director and CEO Dale Henderson welcomed the partnership.

“We commend Fortescue’s leadership in developing the Green Grid and are pleased to partner with them as their first external customer. This agreement will deliver lower-cost, lower-emissions power to our long-life Pilgangoora operation, further strengthening our competitiveness in the global lithium industry.”

Green Grid Infrastructure Reaches 550 Kilometres

Fortescue has already constructed 550 kilometres of its planned 660-kilometre transmission network across the Pilbara.

The Green Grid combines solar and wind generation, battery storage, transmission infrastructure and intelligent energy management.

More than 1.3 gigawatts (GW) of renewable generation capacity and over one GWh of battery storage are operational or under construction, with more than 6,000 solar panels being installed daily.

The network is expected to reach 2.4GW of solar and wind capacity, supported by between four and five GWh of battery storage.

Reducing Diesel Costs and Emissions

Fortescue is positioning renewable electricity as a way to reduce operating costs, emissions and exposure to volatile fossil fuel prices.

The company consumed 680 million litres of diesel last year, with Otranto highlighting the financial implications of fluctuating fuel prices.

“Cost. Climate. Control. That’s the case for the Green Grid. We used 680 million litres of diesel last year, and every 10-cent rise in diesel prices adds almost US$70 million to our annual costs. Replacing diesel with renewable power improves our competitiveness, cuts emissions, reduces our exposure to volatile fossil fuel prices and gives us greater control over when and where we use energy,” said Ontaro.

Further Pilbara Customers in the Pipeline

The PLS agreement establishes a new long-term revenue stream for Fortescue while demonstrating the potential to supply renewable electricity to other mining and industrial operations.

Otranto indicated that further commercial opportunities are being explored.

“PLS is our first customer, with a strong pipeline of others across the Pilbara looking to our Green Grid for greater choice and flexibility in how they source their power.”

The agreement marks a significant milestone in Fortescue’s energy strategy, extending the Green Grid’s role from internal decarbonisation to supplying electricity across the Pilbara mining industry.

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Rio Tinto will invest $1.9 billion to develop the Kangwinan bauxite project in Queensland, Australia, expanding production capacity at its Weipa Operations, supporting thousands of jobs, and securing long-term supply for international customers and Australian alumina refineries.

BOOSTING QUEENSLAND’S BAUXITE INDUSTRY  

Rio Tinto is investing $1.9 billion in the development of the Kangwinan bauxite project on Western Cape York Peninsula in Queensland, reinforcing the long-term future of its Weipa Operations and its position as a leading global producer of high-quality bauxite. 

The brownfield development will add 20 million tonnes (t) of annual production capacity, drawing on some existing infrastructure. First output is targeted for 2029, with full production expected by 2032. 

The investment reflects Rio Tinto’s continued commitment to Australian mining and its disciplined approach to capital allocation, whilst supporting the company’s integrated aluminium value chain. 

REPLACING EXISTING PRODUCTION  

Kangwinan will replace output from the Andoom mine near Weipa as the operation approaches the end of its life this decade. The development will increase Weipa Operations’ annual production capacity to approximately 44 million t, up from current production of around 38 million t. 

The project will also help offset the planned cessation of production at the Gove mine in the Northern Territory in 2029, supporting continuity of supply for Rio Tinto’s customers. 

Rio Tinto Aluminium & Lithium Chief Executive Jérôme Pécresse said: “Kangwinan is a strong vote of confidence in Weipa, in the quality of its bauxite, the capability of its workforce, and the future of the communities and businesses closely connected to our operations. 

DEVELOPING INFRASTRUCTURE AND IMPROVING EFFICIENCY  

Early works at Kangwinan began in 2025. Upon completion, the project will establish a new bauxite production centre 15 kilometres (km) south-east of Rio Tinto’s Amrun mine, which lies 40 km south of Weipa. 

A 15-km conveyor will transport ore from Kangwinan to expanded stockyard facilities and the existing Amrun wharf. Planned wharf upgrades will enable it to accommodate larger capesize vessels, improving supply-chain efficiency and reducing freight costs. 

Construction activity is expected to ramp up in 2027, with the project forecast to support more than 1,300 construction jobs. Over the longer term, Kangwinan will help sustain Rio Tinto’s residential workforce of approximately 1,500 people in Western Cape York. 

BUILDING LONG-TERM COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS  

Rio Tinto has operated in Western Cape York for more than 60 years, developing its bauxite business alongside relationships with Traditional Owners and local communities. The company says maintaining these partnerships will remain central to the success of its operations. 

Pécresse said: “For more than 60 years, we have operated in Western Cape York, building a world-class bauxite business and enduring relationships with Traditional Owners and local communities. Cultivating and expanding that ongoing partnership will be critical to the long-term success of our operations. 

“As Kangwinan moves forward, and with the planned acquisition of the Aurukun Bauxite Project, we will keep listening and working together to create lasting value for Western Cape York, while respecting the connection Traditional Owners have to Country and making sure they continue to benefit sustainably from our operations. 

“This investment will support jobs, create opportunities for local and regional businesses, and help us continue supplying our customers with the high-quality bauxite they have relied on for decades.” 

EXPANDING WESTERN CAPE YORK’S GROWTH POTENTIAL  

The Kangwinan investment forms part of Rio Tinto’s broader plans for Western Cape York. Last month, the company agreed to acquire the adjacent Aurukun Bauxite Project, subject to government approvals, from its current owners, Glencore (70 percent) and Mitsubishi (30 percent). 

The proposed acquisition is intended to support Rio Tinto’s long-term growth strategy by leveraging existing and planned infrastructure across the region. 

Together, the Amrun, Kangwinan, and Aurukun operations are expected to sustain Weipa Operations well beyond the middle of this century, strengthening the region’s role in Rio Tinto’s global bauxite business. 

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Hitachi has announced plans to launch Hitachi Digital in April 2027, combining GlobalLogic and Hitachi Digital Services into a single global business. Led by CEO and Chairman Anand Birje, the new company will bring together approximately 35,000 professionals across 27 countries to help organisations integrate artificial intelligence (AI), cloud technologies and digital engineering into their operations.

Hitachi Unites GlobalLogic and Digital Services Under One Brand

Hitachi has unveiled plans to establish Hitachi Digital, a new global digital services company designed to accelerate enterprise transformation through the integration of cloud computing, data and AI.

Scheduled to begin operations on 1 April 2027, the company will combine Hitachi’s US subsidiaries GlobalLogic and Hitachi Digital Services under a single brand, following an integration plan announced in January 2026.

Headquartered in Santa Clara, California, Hitachi Digital will employ approximately 35,000 professionals across 27 countries and serve more than 880 active clients.

The new business will combine GlobalLogic’s software and product engineering capabilities with Hitachi Digital Services’ expertise in enterprise systems, cloud infrastructure and operational technology.

Hitachi says the integration will allow customers to access services covering the full digital transformation lifecycle, from developing AI-enabled products to modernising existing enterprise systems and managing their ongoing operations.

Anand Birje, CEO and Chairman of Hitachi Digital, said: “Our clients need one partner who understands how an industry works, maintains deep technology ecosystem relationships, while engineering what’s new, modernizing what’s underneath, and keeping it all running across the enterprise.”

“Hitachi Digital brings digital engineering and operations together as one company, at global scale, with the industrial depth of Hitachi behind us. We can be our clients’ one trusted partner from strategy through operations, engineering what the world depends on.”

Expanding AI, Cloud and Digital Transformation Services

Hitachi Digital will operate across several technology areas, including physical AI, data intelligence, cloud computing, site reliability engineering and enterprise applications.

Its services will target industries with complex operational requirements, including manufacturing, energy, mobility, financial services, healthcare, telecommunications and retail.

The company will draw on Hitachi’s industrial expertise to develop solutions connecting digital technologies with physical infrastructure.

This includes expanding the use of physical AI, which applies AI capabilities to machinery, robotics and other systems operating in real-world environments.

Hitachi Digital will also support the development of HMAX, Hitachi’s suite of AI-powered solutions for social infrastructure.

The business intends to strengthen its capabilities through investment in AI, data and cloud specialists, alongside technology partnerships and potential acquisitions.

Forward-Deployed Engineers to Support Enterprise AI Adoption

A central element of Hitachi Digital’s strategy will be its use of forward-deployed engineers (FDEs).

These teams of AI specialists, data scientists and engineers will work directly within customers’ operational environments to develop and implement digital solutions.

Rather than focusing exclusively on technology development, the approach is designed to address the practical challenges of deploying AI across complex enterprise systems and industrial operations.

Engineers will work alongside customers in locations such as manufacturing plants, transport depots and energy substations, incorporating operational knowledge into AI systems.

Hitachi plans to employ and develop 5,000 FDEs in Japan alone as part of its wider digital transformation strategy.

The company will also use its own businesses, including Hitachi Energy and Hitachi Rail, to develop and test technologies before extending them to external customers.

Hitachi describes this as its ‘customer zero’ approach, using experience gained from internal deployments to improve solutions for other organisations.

Hitachi Targets Growth in Physical AI and Industrial Technology

The integration is intended to strengthen Hitachi’s position in the growing market for enterprise AI and industrial digital transformation.

Hitachi Digital’s synergy revenue with other Hitachi Group businesses increased by 46 per cent year-on-year during the first half of the financial year, according to the company.

Jun Abe, Executive Vice President and Head of the Digital Systems and Services Sector at Hitachi, said: “With the launch of Hitachi Digital, Hitachi will evolve into a global digital services company capable of providing end-to-end solutions ranging from enterprise AI to physical AI.”

“By uniting GlobalLogic’s digital engineering with Hitachi Digital Services’ enterprise and operational expertise, and leveraging the FDE Team as a driving force, together with Hitachi’s OT and domain knowledge in social infrastructure, we will work alongside clients throughout their business transformation and help maximize value creation.”

The new organisation will also build on existing industry recognition for both businesses.

ISG Research has recognised their capabilities across intelligent robotics and physical AI services, digital engineering and generative AI services.

Gowtham Sampath, Assistant Director and Principal Analyst at ISG Research, said the integration combines Hitachi’s industrial expertise with enterprise AI capabilities.

Hitachi Digital to Begin Operations in April 2027

Hitachi Digital will operate as a wholly owned subsidiary of Hitachi, with Birje serving as CEO and Chairman.

As part of the restructuring, the existing Hitachi Digital LLC will be renamed Hitachi Digital Holding LLC, overseeing business management for the Digital Engineering and AI Solutions Business Unit.

The newly formed Hitachi Digital Inc. will become the operating company delivering services to customers worldwide.

The launch forms part of Hitachi’s wider Lumada 3.0 strategy, which focuses on combining digital technologies, operational expertise and industrial infrastructure.

By consolidating its digital engineering and enterprise services operations, Hitachi aims to provide organisations with a single technology partner capable of supporting transformation projects from initial development through to long-term operations.

The new company is scheduled to commence legal operations on 1 April 2027.

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HCLTech has announced a major expansion of its Climate Action Grant programme, extending funding opportunities to non-profit organisations across 24 countries. With USD$1.25 million available for the next round of awards, the initiative aims to accelerate community-led climate action, ecosystem restoration and biodiversity protection worldwide.

HCLTech Expands Climate Funding Across 24 Countries

Global technology company HCLTech has expanded its Climate Action Grant programme to 24 countries, increasing opportunities for non-profit organisations (NPOs) developing solutions to climate change and environmental degradation.

Announced on 26 October 2026, the expansion builds on the company’s existing grant programme in the Americas, which was established in 2023 to support locally developed environmental initiatives.

HCLTech initially committed USD$5 million over five years to eligible organisations across 10 countries in the Americas. Over the past three editions, it has disbursed USD$3 million to support climate and environmental projects.

The programme will now extend to organisations across Europe, Asia-Pacific, Africa and the Americas, providing a broader international platform for climate innovation.

The 24 eligible countries are Australia, Brazil, Bulgaria, Canada, France, Germany, Guatemala, Italy, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, Morocco, the Netherlands, the Philippines, Poland, Romania, Singapore, South Africa, Spain, Sri Lanka, Sweden, the United Kingdom, the United States and Vietnam.

USD$1.25 Million in Grants to Support Climate Innovation

The expanded HCLTech Global Grant for Climate Action will provide funding to four successful organisations.

One overall winner will receive USD$500,000, while three runners-up will each receive USD$250,000.

Recipients will be selected through a screening process, with the winners scheduled to be announced on 5 June 2027.

The initiative focuses on supporting NPOs working to combat climate change, restore ecosystems and protect biodiversity.

By expanding its geographical reach, HCLTech aims to identify environmental solutions developed at a community level that may also have the potential to deliver benefits in other regions.

Dr Nidhi Pundhir, Global Head of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) at HCLTech, said: “Great ideas can come from any community, and solutions developed in one place can create possibilities in another.”

“The HCLTech Global Grant for Climate Action has evolved through our experience in India and the Americas, and taking the Grant global is the next step in that journey. By creating a broader platform for climate innovation, we want to support locally rooted ideas and help solutions with potential for wider impact reach further.”

Supporting Ecosystem Restoration and Biodiversity

The grant expansion forms part of HCLTech’s wider environmental and social responsibility activities, which include ecosystem restoration, water conservation and community development.

Through its HCLFoundation initiatives in India, the company reports having planted more than 3.6 million saplings and supported the greening of 74,000 acres of land.

It has also reported harvesting more than 155 billion litres of water through its initiatives.

According to HCLTech, its CSR programmes have impacted more than 8.8 million lives, with women accounting for 54 per cent of those reached.

These activities provide a foundation for the company’s expanded international grant programme, which is intended to support environmental projects beyond its existing geographical focus.

HCLTech Targets Net-Zero Emissions by 2040

The announcement also reflects HCLTech’s broader sustainability commitments, including its target to achieve net-zero emissions by 2040.

The company was included in TIME’s World’s Most Sustainable Companies list for the second consecutive year.

It also achieved an EcoVadis Gold rating and an MSCI AA (Leader) environmental, social and governance (ESG) rating for the second consecutive year in its 2026 financial year.

The expansion of the Climate Action Grant adds a philanthropic funding initiative to HCLTech’s wider sustainability activities, extending support to organisations addressing environmental challenges at a local level.

The programme provides an opportunity to secure funding for climate and biodiversity projects while potentially increasing the international reach of their work.

Applications can be submitted through the HCLTech Global Grant for Climate Action website, with winners to be announced on 5 June 2027.

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Vertice has partnered with EcoVadis to integrate supplier sustainability ratings directly into its artificial intelligence (AI) procurement platform, enabling businesses to evaluate environmental, social and governance (ESG) performance alongside pricing, contract terms and commercial risk when making purchasing decisions.

Vertice and EcoVadis Bring Sustainability Data into Procurement

AI procurement platform Vertice has announced a strategic partnership with EcoVadis designed to make sustainability performance a central consideration in everyday purchasing decisions.

The agreement makes Vertice EcoVadis’ first AI procurement orchestration partner, bringing supplier ESG ratings and scores directly into procurement workflows.

The integration will allow procurement teams to assess sustainability credentials alongside pricing intelligence, peer benchmarks, contractual terms and supplier risk, rather than consulting separate platforms.

The partnership aims to help businesses balance commercial objectives with sustainability commitments while improving visibility into supplier performance.

EcoVadis provides sustainability assessments covering environmental performance, labour and human rights, ethics and sustainable procurement.

Its network includes more than 175,000 assessed businesses across 185 countries, providing a substantial source of supplier sustainability intelligence.

Meanwhile, Vertice’s procurement intelligence dataset covers more than 250,000 negotiated contracts, over USD$75 billion in global indirect expenditure and more than two million price points across upwards of 32,000 vendors.

AI Procurement Connects ESG Performance with Commercial Decisions

The integration brings together EcoVadis’ sustainability ratings and Vertice’s AI-powered procurement intelligence to provide buyers with a more comprehensive view of prospective and existing suppliers.

By incorporating ESG information into purchasing workflows, the companies aim to reduce the risk of sustainability considerations being overlooked during supplier selection and contract negotiations.

Roy Tuvey, CEO and Founder of Vertice, said: “Our customers want to be able to consistently make the best purchasing decisions, through an AI-native platform and based on a single view of the most comprehensive intelligence. Partnering with EcoVadis helps us to do that.”

“Our agentic AI orchestration platform can now deliver robust and extensive ESG data alongside our own data on price, commercial terms and wider risk factors to hit both ESG objectives and cost savings goals.”

The partnership reflects the growing role of AI-enabled procurement technology in consolidating supplier information and supporting purchasing decisions across complex organisations.

Capita Among Early Customers Using Integrated ESG Intelligence

The partnership is already being implemented with shared customers, including Capita, the London Stock Exchange-listed business process outsourcing and professional services company.

Capita uses Vertice for AI procurement orchestration and EcoVadis for supplier sustainability assessments.

Suraj Naik, Group Procurement Director and Chief Procurement Officer at Capita, said: “Vertice powers AI procurement orchestration at Capita, and EcoVadis provides trusted sustainability ratings for our suppliers. Together, the integration of EcoVadis ratings within Vertice’s AI procurement platform embeds supplier ESG performance into every procurement decision, ensuring sustainability considerations are evaluated alongside cost, risk and commercial factors.”

The integration is intended to help procurement professionals consider supplier sustainability credentials throughout the purchasing process without introducing a separate assessment stage.

Sustainable Procurement Supports Supply Chain Resilience

The partnership also highlights the relationship between sustainable procurement, supplier risk management and long-term supply chain resilience.

EcoVadis’ sustainability intelligence is designed to help businesses understand supplier performance, manage regulatory and operational risks and support greenhouse gas emissions reductions.

Annette Gevaert, Senior Vice President, Alliances and Partnerships at EcoVadis, said: “A resilient supply chain relies on sustainable procurement. By embedding trusted, verified sustainability data directly into the purchasing workflow, our partnership with Vertice ensures ESG impact is evaluated right alongside price and commercial terms – every time a decision is made.”

EcoVadis was also ranked among the top three ESG ratings providers for quality and usefulness among corporate and investor respondents in the ERM Sustainability Institute’s Rate the Raters survey, which assessed 14 providers.

Procurement Technology Moves Towards Integrated Supplier Intelligence

The announcement follows industry recognition for Vertice’s AI procurement capabilities.

The company was named a Leader in the IDC MarketScape: Worldwide AI-Enabled Spend Orchestration 2026 assessment and identified as a Notable Vendor in Forrester’s 2026 Supplier Value Management Landscape report.

Patrick Reymann, Research Director – Procurement Applications and Agents at IDC, said: “Sustainability commitments are won or lost in everyday purchasing decisions.”

“Bringing EcoVadis’ verified ratings on more than 175,000 companies into that same workflow extends these outcomes to ESG, giving procurement teams a far more complete view of every supplier they buy from.”

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Minesto has joined a Swedish government-backed partnership to develop tidal energy opportunities in Indonesia, supporting renewable energy expansion through strategic collaboration and local project development.

UNLOCKING INDONESIA’S OCEAN ENERGY POTENTIAL

Ocean energy developer Minesto has been selected to participate in the Sweden–Indonesia Sustainability Partnership (SISP), a Swedish government-backed initiative designed to support sustainable development and business collaboration in Indonesia.

Through the partnership’s Sustainable Energy Programme, Minesto will work closely with Business Sweden to advance commercial opportunities for its patented tidal energy technology. The collaboration will focus on identifying strategic partners, facilitating access to financing, and progressing project development in a market with significant potential for ocean energy.

Indonesia’s extensive network of islands and straits creates favourable conditions for harnessing tidal currents, with its total ocean energy potential estimated at approximately 60 GW. However, the country’s electricity generation remains heavily dependent on fossil fuels, presenting challenges as it seeks to expand renewable energy across thousands of islands.

Minesto’s technology offers an opportunity to harness predictable tidal currents, including at sites with lower flow velocities. By complementing established renewable energy sources such as solar and wind, tidal power could help build a more reliable, diversified renewable energy system.

Johan Lennefalk, Acting Country Manager Indonesia at Business Sweden, highlights the importance of developing these resources as part of the country’s energy transition.

“Indonesia has significant untapped potential in ocean and hydropower resources, which can play an important role in diversifying the country’s renewable energy mix,” Lennefalk says.

He adds that Minesto’s technology can harness tidal currents that have previously been difficult to utilise, providing predictable renewable electricity alongside other hydropower and ocean energy solutions. The partnership will support efforts to help Indonesia achieve its net-zero emissions target by 2060.

DEVELOPING LOCAL PARTNERSHIPS

The collaboration builds on Minesto’s existing business development activities in Indonesia, including feasibility assessments for a tidal energy project at Nusa Penida, southeast of Bali, undertaken with local partners.

Working with Business Sweden through SISP will help Minesto strengthen local partnerships and advance project development, moving opportunities toward commercial implementation.

For Minesto, Indonesia represents a significant market for its technology, given the scale of its tidal resources and growing demand for reliable renewable electricity.

“Being a part of the Sweden–Indonesia Sustainability Partnership strengthens our ability to turn this potential into commercial projects, working alongside Business Sweden and key Indonesian stakeholders,” says Dr Martin Edlund, CEO of Minesto.

The partnership also provides a platform for wider collaboration between Swedish businesses and Indonesian stakeholders as demand for sustainable energy solutions grows.

Peter Hjertsson, Energy Lead at Business Sweden, identifies the potential to build on the initiative beyond individual projects.

“The Sweden–Indonesia Sustainability Partnership provides an important platform for connecting Swedish companies, including Minesto, with Indonesia’s growing demand for sustainable energy solutions,” Hjertsson says.

He highlights opportunities to explore larger-scale strategic initiatives at a national level, contributing to Indonesia’s long-term energy transition.

SCALING SUSTAINABLE ENERGY SOLUTIONS

Through SISP, Minesto will seek to translate Indonesia’s ocean energy resources into commercial opportunities, supported by collaboration with Business Sweden and local stakeholders.

With feasibility work already underway at Nusa Penida, the initiative provides a framework to strengthen partnerships and advance tidal energy development in a country where predictable renewable electricity could help diversify the energy mix.

The collaboration reflects a broader focus on connecting Swedish technology providers with Indonesia’s demand for sustainable energy solutions, with tidal power offering a potential complement to other renewable sources as the country works towards its long-term emissions target.

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ABB is investing approximately USD$495 million in a joint venture with Mitsubishi Electric’s low-voltage power distribution business, strengthening its manufacturing and electrification presence across Japan and Asia-Pacific. The agreement will combine established production facilities with ABB’s technology portfolio and global sales network.

ABB Takes Controlling Stake in Mitsubishi Electric Joint Venture

ABB has announced plans to acquire a 51 per cent stake in Mitsubishi Electric’s low-voltage power distribution business, creating a joint venture targeting growth across Asia-Pacific.

The transaction involves an investment of approximately JPY79 billion (USD$495 million) and will give ABB a controlling interest in the newly established company.

ABB will also acquire full ownership of Mitsubishi Electric’s related low-voltage power distribution sales operations outside Japan.

The transaction is expected to close in the second half of 2027, subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions, with an option for ABB to acquire full ownership in the medium term.

The partnership will significantly expand ABB’s position in Japan, where its Electrification business currently has a limited presence.

Expanding Low-Voltage Manufacturing Across Asia-Pacific

The joint venture will combine ABB’s electrification technologies and international distribution network with Mitsubishi Electric’s manufacturing capabilities, customer relationships and regional expertise.

Mitsubishi Electric’s low-voltage power distribution business employs approximately 2,800 people, with dedicated manufacturing facilities in Fukuyama, Japan, and Hanoi, Vietnam.

Its portfolio includes circuit breakers, switches, motor starters, contactors, control devices, energy monitoring equipment and uninterruptible power supply systems.

Giampiero Frisio, President of ABB’s Electrification Business Area, said: “This joint venture brings together that strong local foundation with ABB’s leading technologies and global reach, significantly strengthening our position in Japan and across Asia-Pacific.”

“For customers and employees, it means continuity, greater opportunities, and access to a broader portfolio of low-voltage solutions.”

The agreement supports ABB’s local-for-local manufacturing strategy, which prioritises sourcing and production close to customers in key markets.

Strengthening Industrial Power Distribution Technology

The partnership will enable ABB to introduce its electrification technologies to Mitsubishi Electric’s established customer base while expanding access to low-voltage solutions across the region.

Takayuki Tsuzuki, Senior Executive Officer and Group President, Factory Automation Systems at Mitsubishi Electric Corporation, said: “Through this joint venture with ABB, Mitsubishi Electric will combine ABB’s global business foundation with the technologies, quality, customer base and sales channels it has cultivated over many years.”

The combined portfolio will serve customers requiring electrical distribution, protection and control equipment across industrial and other applications.

Joint Venture Targets Long-Term Growth and Profitability

Mitsubishi Electric’s low-voltage power distribution business recorded net sales of approximately JPY102 billion (USD$640 million) in the financial year ending March 2026, with a low double-digit EBITDA margin.

The transaction values the combined businesses at approximately USD$890 million.

ABB expects operational synergies to improve profitability, with the joint venture forecast to contribute positively to earnings per share after its first year.

The company is targeting an operational EBITA margin of at least 20 per cent within five years.

By combining Mitsubishi Electric’s established manufacturing footprint with ABB’s global electrification capabilities, the partnership is intended to strengthen the companies’ competitive position in Japan and support expansion across Asia-Pacific.

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Amazon is planting the Seeds for a greener Japan by teaming up with the National Land Greening Promotion Organization to support biodiversity conservation and regenerate 100 hectares of forest.

FROM COMMERCE TO CANOPY

• Through its Right Now Climate Fund, Amazon will invest JPY¥220 million over five years in its first forest conservation and restoration project in Japan.

• The initiative will support the restoration of 100 hectares of forest across 20 sites near the Tokyo, Osaka and Nagoya metropolitan areas, contributing to the Japanese government’s 30by30 goal of conserving at least 30 percent of the country’s land and sea by 2030.

• Around 2,000 volunteers will participate in forest restoration, whilst approximately 20,000 people, including students, will take part in environmental education. A further 50,000 people will explore forest conservation and biodiversity through symposiums and related activities, creating opportunities for approximately 72,000 people to engage with nature.

Amazon has announced a major new collaboration with the National Land Greening Promotion Organization (NALAPO) to restore forests, conserve biodiversity and strengthen the relationship between local communities and the natural environments around them.

Through its Right Now Climate Fund, Amazon will invest JPY¥220 million over five years to support the programme, marking the fund’s first project of its kind in Japan.

The initiative encompasses 20 forest sites near the metropolitan areas of Tokyo, Osaka and Nagoya. Together, the sites cover 100 hectares of woodland that needs active management and restoration. By reviving these landscapes, the project will help rebuild the habitats that plants and animals depend on to live, move and reproduce.

All 20 sites will work towards recognition as Other Effective Area-Based Conservation Measures (OECMs): areas outside formally protected zones that nevertheless make a meaningful contribution to biodiversity conservation. This recognition will support Japan’s 30by30 target of conserving more than 30 percent of its land and sea by 2030.

Forests play a multifaceted role in supporting local life, not only for biodiversity conservation but also for national land conservation. This time, Amazon and the National Land Greening Promotion Organization are collaborating to pursue OECM registration by maintaining and conserving forests near cities, as part of the 30by30 initiative. We believe this will support the formation of prosperous local communities by achieving our goals and enhancing the multifaceted functions of forests. We hope that companies’ efforts in forest conservation will continue to expand in the future,” comments Kenichi Saito, Director of the Forestry Maintenance Department at the Forestry Agency.

FROM PRIME DELIVERY TO PRIMAEVAL FORESTS

Forests cover nearly 70 percent of Japan, shaping the country’s landscapes, sustaining its water sources and providing a home for a remarkable variety of plant and animal life. Yet many of these forests face mounting pressures.

Declining profitability in the forestry sector, damage from animals such as deer, an ageing workforce, and a shortage of conservation workers have all contributed to the spread of poorly managed woodland. Restoring these forests is not simply an environmental concern. Healthy woodlands support local livelihoods, protect water sources and strengthen communities against floods and other natural disasters.

As a company with a significant presence in Japan, Amazon believes it must address these challenges in partnership with the communities that live alongside the forests.

Forests, which cover about 67 percent of Japan’s land area, currently face various challenges such as a shortage of management personnel due to the downturn in forestry and animal predation. With Amazon’s support, we hope that the Japan-originated conservation approach envisioned at CBD-COP10 will help advance national initiatives that contribute to biodiversity restoration and improvements in living environments for local and urban residents, including flood prevention, with broad participation from students,” outlines Yuji Imaizumi, Executive Director of the National Land Greening Promotion Organization.

Amazon established the USD$100 million Right Now Climate Fund in 2019 to support projects that conserve and restore natural environments whilst strengthening climate resilience and biodiversity. Its investment in Japan extends that work to forests near some of the country’s largest urban centres.

The Japanese project also builds on an internationally recognised conservation OECM framework, which was first conceived at the 10th Conference of the Parties (COP10) to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD), held in Nagoya in 2010.

Alongside ecological surveys conducted by each participating organisation, the Japan Forest Technology Association (JAFTA), a NALAPO partner, will support the development of activity plans required for OECM applications.

The project will also use BIOME Inc.’s artificial intelligence-powered monitoring technology to measure and visualise forest biodiversity recovery, with a particular focus on plant life. This data-led approach will help participating organisations understand how individual ecosystems respond as restoration progresses.

PUTTING DOWN ROOTS: A 20-SITE PLAN

The programme combines hands-on restoration with public education and community participation. Around 2,000 volunteers will help restore forests near urban areas, whilst approximately 20,000 people, from elementary school pupils to university students, will participate in practical environmental education.

A further 50,000 people are expected to deepen their understanding of forests and biodiversity through symposiums and related activities. In total, the initiative will give approximately 72,000 people opportunities to encounter nature, learn about forest ecosystems, and help protect their local environment.

Work is already underway at several of the 20 sites, with local organisations leading restoration activities tailored to each landscape’s needs.

Beyond forest restoration, Amazon is also working to conserve water sources across Japan as part of its ambition to become water positive by 2030.

In 2025, the company launched its first Japanese water-source conservation project in Tabayama Village, Yamanashi Prefecture. Through forest thinning, the project is expected to return more than 130 million litres of water to the local environment each year. A 2026 initiative in the Yoro River basin in Chiba Prefecture is expected to return more than 170 million litres annually.

We are very pleased to be able to collaborate with the National Land Greening Promotion Organization to promote regional forest restoration. Through this initiative, Amazon is committed to protecting the natural and living environments of the communities where customers live and work, passing them on to the next generation. Healthy forests are essential for strengthening resilience to climate change, conserving biodiversity, and improving the quality of life in local communities. We are proud to support this project, which not only works to restore vital forest ecosystems but also creates meaningful opportunities for urban residents to connect with nature and become stakeholders in the local environment,” states Jasper Cheung, President of Amazon Japan LLC.

For more on Amazon’s sustainability initiatives, please see https://www.aboutamazon.jp/planet

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Hisense Middle East has received the Dubai Chamber ESG Label, recognising its commitment to sustainable business practices, responsible governance and environmental performance. The award highlights how the electronics manufacturer is aligning its regional operations with its global sustainability strategy.

Why Hisense Received the Dubai Chamber ESG Label

Hisense Middle East has been awarded the Dubai Chamber Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Label, recognising its efforts to integrate responsible business practices into its operations in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Presented by the Dubai Chamber’s Centre for Responsible Business, the label recognises organisations demonstrating strong ESG performance and a commitment to continuous improvement.

For Hisense, the recognition reflects its approach to aligning local operations with global sustainability objectives, encompassing environmental management, corporate governance and social responsibility.

The UAE is an important regional market for the electronics manufacturer, which operates in more than 180 countries.

How Sustainable Manufacturing Supports Hisense’s ESG Strategy

Hisense’s wider sustainability strategy includes initiatives to reduce the environmental impact of its manufacturing activities and improve operational efficiency.

Globally, the company is expanding green factories, adopting low-carbon technologies and manufacturing standards, and developing zero-carbon manufacturing facilities.

It is also pursuing emissions reduction programmes and operational improvements intended to support long-term business resilience.

These initiatives provide the broader context for Hisense’s sustainability commitments in the UAE, where the company is working to incorporate ESG principles into its regional business practices.

The announcement does not disclose specific emissions reductions or quantified environmental improvements achieved by its UAE operations.

Why Corporate Governance and Social Responsibility Matter

The Dubai Chamber ESG Label also recognises Hisense’s approach to the social and governance aspects of sustainability.

Beyond environmental performance, the company emphasises ethical business conduct, employee wellbeing and responsible corporate practices.

Jason Ou, President of Hisense Middle East and Africa (MEA) and India, said: “We are proud to receive the Dubai Chamber ESG Label, which reflects our commitment to operating responsibly and creating long-term value in the UAE. This recognition reinforces our belief that sustainable business practices and innovation go hand in hand, and we remain focused on making a positive impact for our customers, partners, employees and the communities we serve.”

Hisense’s approach reflects its stated commitment to incorporating environmental and social considerations into business operations rather than treating sustainability solely as a manufacturing issue.

The Role of Innovation in Hisense’s Sustainability Strategy

Hisense is also supporting regional innovation through its headquarters and research and development (R&D) capabilities in Dubai.

These operations help the company develop products and solutions in response to changing market requirements while supporting its wider business strategy.

The Dubai Chamber ESG Label provides independent recognition of Hisense’s regional approach to responsible business practices.

The post Why Hisense Has Been Recognised for ESG Performance in the UAE appeared first on APAC Outlook Magazine.

Adani Enterprises and Jabil have signed a memorandum of understanding to establish a 50:50 joint venture manufacturing artificial intelligence (AI) data centre equipment in India, targeting growing global demand for advanced computing infrastructure, power systems and cooling technology.

Building India’s AI Hardware Manufacturing Capacity

Adani Enterprises and Jabil have announced plans to establish a joint venture focused on manufacturing and assembling AI infrastructure equipment in India.

The proposed 50:50 partnership would develop a multi-gigawatt manufacturing platform, producing hardware for hyperscale data centres, cloud providers and enterprise customers.

The companies signed a non-binding memorandum of understanding (MoU) on 13 October 2026, following their initial announcement in June of plans to explore a strategic manufacturing alliance.

The venture remains subject to definitive agreements, regulatory approvals and customary conditions.

Once established, it would combine Jabil’s engineering and manufacturing capabilities with Adani’s energy, infrastructure and data centre operations.

Manufacturing AI Servers, Racks and Cooling Systems

The proposed manufacturing operation would produce AI racks, servers, storage systems and networking equipment used in high-performance computing environments.

Its portfolio would also include power distribution units, transformers and liquid-cooling systems, reflecting the growing importance of power management and thermal efficiency in AI infrastructure.

The companies envisage multi-gigawatt AI rack manufacturing capacity, alongside installation and commissioning services.

Gautam Adani, Chairman of Adani Group, said: “The AI revolution will demand far more than just breakthroughs in algorithms. It will require an entire new industrial architecture where energy, hyperscale infrastructure, advanced computing and precision manufacturing converge to power the intelligence economy.”

The partnership would extend Adani’s involvement in AI infrastructure beyond energy generation and data centre development into the manufacture of critical computing equipment.

India Targets Growing Global Data Centre Demand

India’s data centre capacity is forecast to reach between five and eight gigawatts by 2030, supported by increasing AI adoption, cloud expansion and data localisation requirements.

The companies also point to more than USD$50 billion in planned hyperscaler investment across India’s data centre, cloud and AI ecosystems.

Globally, Adani and Jabil estimate the market opportunity for AI infrastructure at more than USD$3 trillion over the next seven years.

The proposed venture would establish an Indian manufacturing base capable of serving domestic customers while supporting international exports.

Mike Dastoor, CEO of Jabil, said: “The signing of this MoU is the next step forward in our shared efforts to establish a scaled AI infrastructure manufacturing platform in India, a market we believe will become increasingly important for both domestic and global AI infrastructure demand.”

“Integrating Jabil’s 60 years of engineering and manufacturing expertise with Adani’s significant infrastructure and energy capabilities, we can bring our rack-level data center solutions to more hyperscalers in India and around the world.”

Expanding Advanced Manufacturing and Infrastructure Investment

The partnership aligns with Adani Group’s commitment to invest USD$100 billion in developing five gigawatts of green-energy-powered, hyperscale AI-ready data centres by 2035.

For Jabil, which reported USD$36 billion in revenue during its 2026 financial year, the venture would strengthen its manufacturing presence in India’s expanding technology infrastructure market.

The company has also developed its data centre capabilities through acquisitions, including Hanley Energy Group, which specialises in power and energy management, and Mikros Technologies, a provider of liquid-cooling solutions.

India’s policy environment is expected to support further investment, including the Union Budget 2026 tax holiday for data centres extending to 2047.

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McDonald’s has unveiled new growth and efficiency targets under its McDonald’s > NEXT strategy, with plans to improve food quality, personalise customer experiences and modernise restaurants. The fast-food giant is also targeting increased market share in chicken and beverages by 2030.

McDonald’s Unveils Growth Strategy

McDonald’s has outlined its McDonald’s > NEXT strategy, introducing new targets designed to increase customer visits, improve restaurant efficiency and strengthen its position in the global food and beverage market.

Building on its Accelerating the Arches strategy, launched in 2020, the initiative aims to make McDonald’s the first choice for more customers, more often.

The company serves more than 70 million customers daily and operates over 46,000 restaurants worldwide. It also has nearly 220 million active loyalty members across 70 markets, providing a substantial platform for personalised customer engagement.

“McDonald’s has the unmatched scale, customer insights, brand loyalty, and operational capabilities to not only adapt to the next wave of change in our industry, but to turn it into an advantage,” said Chris Kempczinski, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of McDonald’s.

What Are the Four Pillars of McDonald’s > NEXT?

The strategy focuses on four areas designed to improve the customer experience while increasing operational productivity.

• Menu > NEXT: Improving food quality, consistency and innovation to encourage customers to choose McDonald’s more frequently.
• Consumer > NEXT: Using customer insights, loyalty programmes and personalisation to strengthen relationships and encourage repeat visits.
• Restaurant > NEXT: Simplifying operations, modernising restaurant design and introducing generative artificial intelligence (AI) through its ArchIQ technology platform.
• People > NEXT: Supporting employees in delivering more consistent customer service and hospitality.

McDonald’s is also launching Make It Golden, a multi-year programme designed to improve food quality and hospitality across its restaurant network.

The initiative will bring together employees and franchisees around a shared approach to improving customer experiences.

Categories Targeted for Growth

A central element of the strategy is expanding McDonald’s presence in key food and beverage categories.

By 2030, the company is targeting market share gains of 1.5 percentage points in both chicken and beverages, while maintaining its leadership position in beef.

These ambitions reflect McDonald’s focus on increasing customer preference through menu development, improved execution and greater personalisation.

The company also aims to strengthen customer loyalty by using its technology platforms and customer data to identify opportunities and introduce successful innovations across its global restaurant network.

AI and Restaurant Modernisation to Improve Efficiency

Technology investment will play a significant role in the strategy, particularly through the deployment of AI-enabled ArchIQ systems and simplified restaurant operations.

McDonald’s is targeting approximately 250 basis points of gross restaurant-level efficiency improvements across its US and International Operated Markets as the strategy is implemented.

This could generate approximately USD$100,000 in annual cash flow benefits for the average US restaurant, with most of the savings expected to improve restaurant profitability over time.

To support implementation, McDonald’s plans to provide approximately USD$8.5 billion in financial support to franchisees through 2036, including approximately USD$5 billion by 2030.

This support will combine rent relief and capital investment to help accelerate restaurant modernisation, technology deployment and operational improvements.

McDonald’s estimates that franchisees could achieve a payback period of approximately four years following this support.

What Does McDonald’s > NEXT Mean for Customers?

For customers, the strategy is intended to deliver improvements in food quality, ordering experiences, personalisation and service consistency.

For franchisees, the focus is on reducing operational complexity, improving productivity and strengthening restaurant economics.

McDonald’s is also targeting an operating margin in the low-to-mid 50 per cent range by 2030, supported by stronger sales performance and efficiency improvements.

While individual markets will determine how they implement the strategy, McDonald’s intends to combine globally developed technology and operational systems with local customer insights.

The company expects the combined approach to increase customer visits, strengthen restaurant profitability and create further opportunities for investment in its global business.

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