Mahindra & Mahindra picks up 33% in Mitsubishi's agri machinery business for Rs 158 crore

Auto major Mahindra and Mahindra (M&M) today signed a definitive agreement with Tokyo-headquartered Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) to acquire 33% stake in its agri subsidiary for $25 million (approximately Rs 158 crore).

"Under the definitive agreement signed today, Mahindra will invest $25 million for acquiring 33% voting stake in MHI subsidiary, Mitsubishi Agricultural Machinery Company (MAM) Ltd, through fresh issue of common shares and Class A shares of (MAM)," Mahindra said in a BSE filing.

It further said: "The deal is expected to close by October 1, 2015, with the new funding to be used to increase MAM's capital base."

Rajesh Jejurikar, President and Chief Executive (Farm Equipment and Two Wheeler Division), Mahindra & Mahindra, said: "This will enable strategic growth avenues for MAM through Mahindra USA, China and other

international markets, thereby speeding up international expansion. It will also provide a platform for both the companies to leverage technology and product development synergies."

The company said the partnership will help both the companies jointly develop products to address global opportunities in the tractor and agri-machinery space.

"In addition, the partnership will enable MAM and Mahindra to improve cost competitiveness through joint procurement and optimise the supply chain," it added.

Shares of Mahindra & Mahindra were trading at Rs 1,252.50 in the morning trade, up 0.12%, from their previous close on the BSE.