CALCULATE YOUR SIP RETURNS

What was Adani Group’s First Business?

Written by: Akshay ShivalkarUpdated on: Mar 19, 2025, 9:27 AM IST
Adani Group started as a commodity trading firm in 1988 and has since expanded into different sectors across the world becoming a global conglomerate.
What was Adani Group’s First Business?
ShareShare on 1Share on 2Share on 3Share on 4Share on 5

What was Adani Group’s First Business?

Gautam Adani’s journey from a young entrepreneur to the head of one of India’s largest business conglomerates is a testament to strategic vision and relentless ambition. From humble beginnings in the diamond trade to founding the Adani Group, his business acumen has driven the company’s expansion across multiple industries, including infrastructure, energy, mining, and media.

The Beginnings of Gautam Adani’s Career

Gautam Adani’s entrepreneurial journey began in Mumbai in 1978, when he entered the diamond industry at just 16 years old after dropping out of school. By 1979, he started trading diamonds, gaining early business exposure.

He later returned to Ahmedabad, joining a plastics factory run by his brother Mansukhlal Adani. In 1983, the family business started importing polyvinyl chloride (PVC) to meet growing demand. The government’s relaxation of import licenses in 1985 further benefited the company, enabling expansion into global trade.

Foundation of Adani Enterprises and Initial Expansion

In 1988, Gautam Adani established Adani Exports, now known as Adani Enterprises. Initially, it focused on commodity trading, dealing in agriculture and power products. This laid the foundation for the Adani Group’s diversification across multiple industries over the following decades.

Expansion Across Multiple Sectors

Since its inception, the Adani Group has strategically expanded into various industries:

  • Commodity Trading: The group started with agricultural and power commodities, forming the backbone of its early operations.
  • Infrastructure: The development of Mundra Port positioned Adani as a leader in private port operations, enhancing trade logistics.
  • Energy: Adani became a dominant player in power generation and renewable energy, including the establishment of India’s largest solar park.
  • Mining and Resources: The group expanded into coal mining in India and internationally, securing energy resources.
  • City Gas Distribution: A comprehensive gas distribution network was established, supporting India’s energy infrastructure.
  • Airports and Media: The group entered the aviation sector through airport acquisitions and expanded into media with AMG Media Networks, which includes stakes in NDTV.

Global Expansion

The Adani Group has strategically expanded its global footprint across Africa, Australia, and Indonesia. In Africa, Adani Ports leads a consortium that signed a concession agreement to operate Container Terminal 2 at Tanzania’s Dar es Salaam Port, marking its entry into the East African port sector.

In Australia, the Group has invested in the Carmichael coal mine project in Queensland’s Galilee Basin, representing one of the largest investments by an Indian company in that country. In Indonesia, Adani operates coal mines in Bunyu, North Kalimantan, supporting energy demands in India and Southeast Asia.

Conclusion

Starting as a commodity trading firm in 1988, the Adani Group has evolved into one of India’s largest conglomerates, with significant investments in ports, energy, infrastructure, and media. Its strategic diversification has enabled global expansion, making it a key player across multiple industries.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.

Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks, read all the related documents carefully before investing.

Published on: Mar 18, 2025, 4:15 PM IST

Akshay Shivalkar

Akshay Shivalkar is a financial content specialist who strategises and creates SEO-optimised content on the stock market, mutual funds, and other investment products. With experience in fintech and asset management, he simplifies complex financial concepts to help investors make informed decisions through his writing.

Know More

We're Live on WhatsApp! Join our channel for market insights & updates

Open Free Demat Account!

Join our 3 Cr+ happy customers

+91
Enjoy Zero Brokerage on Equity Delivery
4.4 Cr+DOWNLOADS
Enjoy ₹0 Account Opening Charges

Get the link to download the App

Get it on Google PlayDownload on the App Store
Open Free Demat Account!
Join our 3 Cr+ happy customers