Manish Mathur
CEO – Cranes, Action Construction Equipment Ltd (ACE)
How do you view the current market scenario of the Indian construction equipment industry?
The Indian construction equipment (CE) industry is currently experiencing a robust phase, fueled by strong infrastructure spending and ambitaious development goals. India’s infrastructure projects are scaling up quickly, thanks to initiatives like the National Infrastructure Pipeline (NIP) and Gati Shakti. These initiatives not only address urban needs but also spur development in rural regions, boosting demand across the CE sector. At ACE, we’ve witnessed this momentum firsthand and are aligning our offerings to meet the evolving demands, especially with the need for energy-efficient and technologically advanced equipment. The current scenario presents a prime opportunity for Indian CE manufacturers to innovate and contribute more strategically to the nation’s infrastructure goals.
How far does expanding infrastructure investment push the consistent use of equipment in infrastructure projects?
The consistent surge in infrastructure investment is a powerful driver for the regular use of construction equipment in India. Projects across highways, railways, and urban infrastructure are creating demand for high-performance and durable machinery. With the government’s emphasis on connectivity and smart cities, there is a greater requirement for equipment that not only performs efficiently but also minimizes downtime. At ACE, we’re committed to ensuring that our equipment meets these needs, providing both reliability and cost-effectiveness. This steady demand reinforces the importance of continuous R&D, allowing us to produce machines that can handle the growing scale and technical requirements of modern infrastructure projects.
How are Make-in-India initiatives progressing in construction equipment? What are your major initiatives?
The Make-in-India initiative has significantly elevated India’s manufacturing ecosystem, particularly in the CE sector. The industry has matured, with many companies now focusing on locally sourced components, enhancing product reliability, and reducing production costs. For ACE, being a 100% Swadeshi company, Make-in-India is more than just a vision; it’s embedded in our core system & processes. We have been heavily investing in local talent, partnerships, and technologies to produce equipment that meets global standards right here in India. By maximizing local sourcing, reducing dependence on imports, and fostering a skilled workforce, we’re not only meeting domestic demand but are well-positioned to serve international markets as well.
Indian CE industry needs to focus more on enhancing exports. What is your take on this, and what are the steps from the company in this regard?
Expanding exports is crucial for the Indian CE industry to establish itself as a global player. ACE is actively exploring new markets and has been scaling up production capabilities to meet international standards. With competitive pricing and quality, we are being recognized as reliable partners worldwide. At ACE, we’re investing in product certifications, design & specifications enhancement, and after-sales service frameworks that cater specifically to export markets. We’re seeing positive traction across regions like the Middle East, Africa, and Southeast Asia, and our goal is to make ACE a trusted name in CE across these emerging markets.
It is equally important to enhance the manufacturing of components and aggregates locally in India. How do you think this is important from an OEM perspective?
Local manufacturing of components is essential from both an operational and strategic perspective. For Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) like ACE, sourcing components locally reduces costs, shortens lead times, and ensures better control over quality. By promoting local production of components, the industry can reduce its dependency on imports, which often fluctuate in availability and cost. At ACE, we work closely with Indian suppliers, fostering collaborations that encourage component manufacturing within the country. This approach not only strengthens our supply chain but also contributes to the broader industrial ecosystem, creating a reliable foundation for India’s CE industry to thrive.
What is your vision on India becoming the second-largest CE market globally? How are you gearing up for this? What is the way forward?
India has the potential to become the second-largest CE market globally, driven by a blend of policy support, rapid urbanization, and a growing need for robust infrastructure. At ACE, we are scaling our production capabilities, enhancing R&D, and constantly innovating to meet this expected surge in demand. Our vision is to lead by example, offering products that resonate with India’s evolving infrastructure landscape and provide value to customers. Moving forward, we plan to expand our footprint, both domestically and internationally, while prioritizing sustainable practices and smart technologies. By focusing on customer needs, product excellence, and a forward-looking strategy, ACE is poised to play a significant role in India’s journey to becoming a CE powerhouse.
