Hitachi has announced a $1.6 billion acquisition of the rail signal business from Thales Group on May 31, 2024, in a strategic move to enhance its presence in Southeast Asia’s railway market. The acquisition will allow Hitachi to provide integrated railway solutions in Singapore and Malaysia, competing with dominant players like China’s CRRC. This deal also extends Hitachi’s market reach to Europe and North America, specifically targeting France, Germany, and Canada. CEO Giuseppe Marino emphasized the company’s capability to offer comprehensive systems from rolling stock to digital services. The deal is part of Hitachi’s broader strategy to consolidate its position in the rail industry, marked by previous acquisitions like Italy’s AnsaldoBreda and STS. The integration will add approximately 160 employees in Singapore and Malaysia, underlining the region’s strategic importance. Furthermore, Marino expressed interest in entering the Indian market and Germany’s rail sector, further expanding Hitachi’s global footprint. This acquisition comes amid a backdrop of industry consolidation, with significant moves by competitors like CRRC and Alstom.

Railway and Transportation, Infrastructure and Construction, Technology and Engineering,Southeast Asia, Europe, India

https://mergersacquisitions.einnews.com/article/724065269/rB2IHb1Dvlu6dDq-?ref=rss&ecode=Q1vNcweEggLWKz7L