China, India identified as key markets for transport sector

The transport sector is looking at the Asia Pacific region as the key market for investment over the next five years, according to the seventh "The way ahead transport survey" from global law firm Norton Rose Fulbright. China and India are the most popular jurisdictions for investment, followed by the US, with growth through consolidation viewed as the best investment opportunity currently, the survey says. While confidence among respondents from the aviation and rail industries is high, owing to lower oil prices, the availability of funding and the impact of infrastructure improvements, the shipping industry remains the least optimistic as a result of overcapacity in many subsectors of the market. Over half (52 per cent) of all respondents to the survey agree that a global recession poses the greatest threat to their industry. However, despite political uncertainty, most agree that the transport sector can expect to enjoy further growth over the next five years. Rising passenger numbers and freight volumes are anticipated (by 73 per cent) and an increase in the number of routes and services is expected (52 per cent).