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Foreword
Af^jYkljm[lmj] Lg\Yq
Dear reader, As the World Bank has recently asked the Roads Ministry to develop new models to expedite projects, Indias Planning Commission envisages a fresh policy on EPC in road projects. Under the new EPC model, the contractor will accept the risk and responsibility for both the design and the construction of work. So while EPC projects have existed, the emphasis on them is freshly brewing. There is a crying need for more professional process in public procurement, better understanding of quality thresholds and technology among (especially) government and public sector developers. The government will soon have a new law in procurement and may introduce a Department of Procurement. This should come as good news to everyone who is aspiring to reach international quality standards and new technology. Most industry experts believe our contract systemnot procurement aloneneeds major reform. International developers and investors are demanding better processes and adherence to health, safety, environment norms. As internationalization knocks on Indias doors, however, high attrition and lack of labourespecially skilled labourpersists. Thanks to governments in traditionally underserved but overpopulated regions such as Bihar, Orissa and Bengalfrom where labour typically migrates en masse to where the action isdevelopmental and infrastructure projects are coming up aggressively. The government-sponsored MGNREGA, which guarantees employment in rural areas, is another reason. Delays in our development projects are forcing more developers to go the EPC way. The new emphasis on EPC is also, sadly, because investments are looking south. With a double-dip threat in the global economy, the worst industrial growth in eight quarters in India and projects down to a trickle, EPC is a stable option. But if the recent success of Indias largest-ever highway bid-out is any indication, some sectors are all set to change the trendeven as power projects remain suspect owing to poor health of the distribution companies. Were proud to present a joint paper that outlines and analyses the trends in EPC, a\]fla]k akkm]k$ Yf\ j][gee]f\k hgda[q [`Yf_]k Yf\ oYqk ^gjoYj\&
Pratap Vijay Padode Editor-in-Chief, Infrastructure Today and Managing Director, ASAPP Media Information Group
Dear reader, Indias EPC market has come under the global scanner. The sector has witnessed consistent changes over the past few years, with increasing project sizes, scale and market maturity. Riding on Indias af^jYkljm[lmj] j]imaj]e]flk gn]j l`] f]pl n] q]Yjk ]klaeYl]\ INR40.9 trillion during the Twelfth Five Year Plan) the EPC sector is likely to make major advances. The order books of numerous players are bulging, and the sector is attracting the increased interest of global majors, and Indian conglomerates as well as infrastructure developers. The sector has become more dependent on infrastructure investments than ever before. This trend is further illustrated by the fact that projects awarded by the Indian Government are gradually shifting toward the Private Public Partnership (PPP) model. Some sectors, such as highways and power, have reached a mature stage, whereas others such as the railways and urban infrastructure are yet to develop through the PPP model. Today, EPC contractors have a healthy mix of government and private sector clients, as compared to their heavy dependence on government clients until few years ago. Therefore, companies have to adapt to such changing environments. Over the past three years, some large EPC companies have seen a ~20% growth in their j]n]fm]k Yf\ gj\]j Zggck& @go]n]j$ o] `Yn] gZk]jn]\ l`Yl l`ak _jgol` ak fgl j]][l]\ af l`]aj Zgllge daf]$ Yf\ l`ak ak `a_`da_`l]\ Zq l`]aj mf\]jh]j^gjeYf[] af Af\aYk fYf[aYd eYjc]lk& L`ak kdgo\gof af hjglk eYq Z] YlljaZml]\ lg emdlahd] [Ymk]k [gkl gn]jjmfk$ afYlagfYjq hj]kkmj]k$ hjgb][l \]dYqk$ j]_mdYlgjq Zglld]f][ck$ Y__j]kkan] Za\\af_ gj resource constraints (including that of skilled labor). In the present scenario, companies ^Y[] Yf af[j]Ykaf_ f]]\ lg j]Yda_f l`]aj kljYl]_a]k Yf\ ^g[mk gf hjglYZadalq Yk Y_Yafkl revenue growth. Companies have been constantly exploring and innovating means of overcoming the challenges mentioned above. This report discusses the latest trends and the market direction, as well as the strategies adopted by various players to adapt to the ever [`Yf_af_ f]]\k g^ l`] k][lgj& O] `gh] qgm ]fbgq j]Y\af_ l`ak j]hgjl Yf\ f\ al insightful.
Sushi Shyamal Partner, Transaction Advisory Services Transportation Infrastructure and Construction Sector Leader, Ernst & Young India
Contents
1 2 3 4 5 6 7
Introduction 06 L`] ghhgjlmfalq ha] 12 C]q Zmkaf]kk [`Ydd]f_]k 28
Kmhhd]e]flYd2 Cfgo qgmj lYp 9ff]pmj]2 Af\aYf =H; hYjla[ahYflk dakl]\ hdYq]jk!
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60
Heading
Introduction
Understanding EPC
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A decade ago, the EPC industry comprised a handful of large, complex projects and multitude small packages and subcontracts. Today, there is no dearth of high value and complex projects being executed by government and private players. The increasing size and complexity of projects has, however, led to a growing reliance on contractors capabilities and project management skills. ;gfljY[lk `Yn] ]ngdn]\ ^jge al]e jYl] hY[cY_]k lg dmeh kme p]\ hja[] Zaf\af_ contracts. Slowly but steadily, the onus of project management has shifted from the owner/developer to the contractor. Gradually, the risk of time and cost overruns has been transferred to the contractor, along with the responsibility of designing, procurement of materials and construction. Standard clauses and conditions prevailed, Zml l`] =H; [gfljY[l eg\]d `Yk ]ngdn]\ lg j]][l l`] k`a^l af ZYdYf[] g^ jakc Z]lo]]f l`] owner/developer and the contractor.
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There are several types of construction contracts that are used. While some are item jYl]%ZYk]\ [gfljY[lk$ gl`]jk hjgna\] hYkk%l`jgm_` ]k[YdYlagfk Yf\ afYlagf hjgl][lagf to the contractor. Some contracts include the clients design requirements, but others hdY[] l`] gfmk g^ \]ka_faf_ gf l`] [gfljY[lgj& Km[` [gfljY[lk$ oal` nYjqaf_ Zml kh][a[ hj]%\]f]\ l]jek Yf\ [gf\alagfk$ eYq Z] [Yl]_gjar]\ Yk hY[cY_]% ZYk]\ [gfljY[lk& Contracts wherein the onus to deliver the facility for a guaranteed price within a p]\ h]jag\$ oal` h]j^gjeYf[] gf l`] ZYkak g^ hj]%[geeall]\ klYf\Yj\k$ da]k oal` l`] contractor are categorized as turnkey contracts. These are therefore awarded either on a package or turnkey basis or are a combination of the two. Under the package-based model, time and cost overrun risks may lie with the owner or developer. Under the turnkey model, failure to comply with any of the requirements would necessarily have an adverse impact on the contractor. This model has gained popularity since it places the responsibility for designing, procurement and construction gf l`] [gfljY[lgj& KaemdlYf]gmkdq$ al Ydkg ]fkmj]k ]^[a]f[q Yf\ eala_Yl]k hjgb][l completion time and costs, since it places the onus of successful project delivery on the contractor. 9f =H; [gfljY[l `Yk nYjagmk klYc]`gd\]jk oal` a\]fla]\ jgd]k Yf\ j]khgfkaZadala]k l`Yl are dependent on the contract model.
EPC contract
Subcontractors
Contractor
Participant Owners/Developers
Illustrative players Public sector NTPC, NHAI, AAI, Port Trusts Private sector Tata Power, Reliance Power, GMR Group, GVK Group, Adani Group, Sterlite, Essar Group, JSW, AVB Group
<]f] k[gh]$ kh][a[Ylagfk$ klYf\Yj\k$ hjgb][l \mjYlagf and cost of project Supervises project work with in-house or external consultants Makes payment according to agreed upon milestones in contract Prepare initial design for tendering document Manages tendering process Prepare detailed design based on agreed upon klYf\Yj\k Yf\ kh][a[Ylagfk Procures 3M resources (material, machinery and manpower) Delivers project according to the terms of the the contract EYq Yhhgafl kmZ%[gfljY[lgjk lg Zjaf_ af ]^[a]f[a]k Supply materials/equipment required for execution of project Deliver work to the contractor typically a back-to-back contract with the contractor Supervise work undertaken by contractor and subcontactor Ensure timely procurement and adequacy of resources Report progress and issues to owner/developer/ contractor
Consultants
EIL, Stup, Rites, Mott Macdonald, Halcrow, CES- Jacobs L&T, HCC, NCC, Punj Lloyd, IVRCL, Gammon, Patel Engg. Shapoorji Group, IRCON, Navyuga, Leighton, Isolux
Contractors
Suppliers/Vendors
General Electric, Mitsubishi, Thermax, Hitachi, Alstom, BGR Energy Systems, BHEL, JCB, Eicher Group, Doosan Group Sadbhav, Ramky Infrastructure, Indu Projects, Coastal projects, ITD Cementation, Welspun Projects, Afcons, Soma Local contractors and consultants providing these services
Sub-contractors
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The Indian EPC sector, with its rising prominence and changing dynamics, has over 150 participants and a multitude of stakeholders (see Annexure attached) today. Players have carved out a niche for themselves and have developed their reputation, based on their sector focus. Some have also divested their operations in other sectors, thereby segregating the entire EPC space, based on operational segments.
Illustrative domestic players L&T, HCC, Gammon, IVRCL Patel Engg., Era Infra, Simplex, Sadbhav, Nagarjuna L&T, Shapoorji Pallonji, Ahluwalia Contractors, BL Kashyap, BG Shirke, BE Billimoria, CCCL, Man Infra, Supreme, Shapoorji Pallonji EPC, Unity Infraprojects L & T, Punj Lloyd, Petron, Essar Projects, Mc Nally Bharat BHEL, Thermax, L&T, Tata Projects, KEC International, Kalpatru- JMC, Lanco Infratech, BGR Energy Shriram EPC, Coastal Projects, Navayuga Afcons, Simplex, ECE
Illustrative foreign players Isolux, ITD Cementation, IJM, Leighton, ACS, Hochtief, Vinci, SNC Foreign participation only in project management
An insight Increasing opportunities in the infrastructure sector have attracted many new entrants to this space.
Building construction
The space is unorganized in nature and is dominated by many local contractors. Foreign players only operate as PMCs, architects and consultants.
Aker Solutions, Leighton, Saipem, Bechtel Doosan, Dongfang, Siemens, Bechtel, Hitachi, Thermax, BHEL, Ansaldo ABB, Uhde India, Toyo Engineering, Samsung Engg, Alstom, Mitsubishi, Mitsui
There is high competition from foreign participants, especially for offshore contracts. The space is dominated by equipment manufacturers, especially from South East Asia. Foreign players prefer to enter joint ventures (JVs) with India partners. This space comprises players who have carved a niche for themselves in segments such as hydel tunneling, marine construction, power transmission, equipment supply or industrial construction.
Specialized EPC
Indias Planning Commission has announced infrastructure investments of INR40.9 trillion during the Twelfth Five Year Plan period, and the EPC sector, with its estimated ghhgjlmfalq kar] g^ AFJ)/&) ljaddagf& ak ]ph][l]\ lg Z] l`] dYj_]kl Z]f][aYjq g^ investments. While the power and highways sectors are expected to continue being the Governments main investment focus areas, the urban infrastructure and telecommunications sectors are also expected to witness enhanced investment.1
Tenth Plan Planned investments Actual Investments EPC opportunity Sectoral mix INR 8.7 trillion INR 9.6 trillion INR 4.5 trillion Power: 37% Roads: 14% Telecom: 11% Railways: 11% Irrigation: 13% ~50% spend on power and roads above targeted achievement in power sector
Eleventh Plan INR 20.5 trillion INR 16.5 trillion (E) INR 9.5 trillion Power: 32% Roads: 14% Telecom: 17% Irrigation: 12% Railways: 10% Power and roads consistently amounting to ~50% of planned expenditure added focus on telecom
1
Twelfth Plan INR 40.9 trillion INR 17.1 trillion Power: 31% Roads: 12% Telecom: 25% Railways: 7% Irrigation: 9% Greater thrust on telecommunications increased expenditure on ports, oil and gas pipelines
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The sector is not however without bottlenecks. There is an increasing realization among contractors to concentrate on their core competencies and prudently select projects . Furthermore, given a weakening global economy, there is a growing focus on growth g^ hjglYZadalq jYl`]j l`Yf gf j]n]fm] Yf\ gj\]j Zggc _jgol`& @mj\d]k af hjgb][lk range from regulatory bottlenecks, land acquisition issues to a resource crunch. These [`Ydd]f_]k kge]lae]k l]f\ lg aehY[l imYdalq$ lae]dq \]dan]jq Yf\ [gkl ]^[a]f[a]k& As is the case with every challenge, there are also opportunities. Contractors implement varied strategies to adapt to changing sector scenarios. While many are gradually diversifying into the asset development business, others are seeking technical partnerships, especially with foreign players. While Indian players have taken the inorganic route to venture into international markets, global construction giants are attracted by Indias growth story. Funding, a critical factor on any construction platform, has been given the much-needed support required through PE investments. Lastly, as risks have increased, companies have developed organic project management teams to put in place and maintain standards, deliver successful projects on time and sustain l`]aj hjglYZadalq& EPC is today highly dependent on the infrastructure sector in general and the PPP model in particular to overcome resource constraints and budgetary limitations. Furthermore, with government agencies gradually handing over asset ownership and development responsibilities to private parties, there is increasing reliance on the private sector for the growth of the EPC sector.
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12
Sector
Proposed total investment (20122017) (INR billion) 4,900 2,964 1,050 662 12,576 2,623 10,117 3,986 1,852 257 40,992
Construction opportunity (INR billion) 3,185 2,312 525 278 4,780 656 1012 2,989 1,222 128 17,087
Roads and Bridges Railways Ports Airports Power Oil and gas pipelines Telecom* Irrigation Water supply and sanitation Storage* Total
*Construction intensity is assumed with comparison to buildings as per data available in the Planning Commissions report. In the case of telecom, construction intensity of 10% has been assumed.
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As the infrastructure space grows in size, we have observed two trends. First, as the size of projects tendered for are increasing, the projects themselves are becoming grander and more complex. Concomitantly, we are also seeing greater competition: the infrastructure pie is being split- up, though the extent of the competition varies by sector. These trends portend interesting times ahead.
Sushi Shyamal, Partner, Transaction Advisory Services, Transportation Infrastructure and Construction Sector Leader, Ernst & Young India
While the telecommunications sector is expected to account for ~25% of the planned infrastructure spend, there may not be a corresponding rise in pro rata growth in the EPC space. On the other hand, the power and highways sectors are expected to generate 47% of the expected INR17.1 trillion construction opportunity.
30.7%
30.0% 16.8%
13.6% 12.0%
13.0%
11.1%
9.8%% 7.2%%
11.1%
12.0%
20.0%
13.8%
24.7%
9.7%
2.5%
2.0%
2.6%
0.6% 0.4%
0.0% Roads and bridges Telecommunications Water supply and sanitation Railways Storage Oil and gas pipelines Power Irrigation Ports Airports
Tenth Five Year Plan (actual investments) [INR 9.1 tn] Twelfth Five Year Plan [INR 40.9 tn]
Source: Planning commission
2 3 4
Mid-Term Appraisal-Eleventh Five Year Plan (2007-2012), Planning Commission website, http://planningcommission.nic.in/, accessed 14 September 2011, p.293295. Column: Target 9% growth. Riders aplenty, Financial Express, 9 September 2011, via Factiva, 2011 Indian Express Online Media Pvt. Ltd. Economic Survey 2010-11, Union budget and economic survey website, http:// indiabudget. nic.in/survey, accessed on 29 September 2011.
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0.6%
3.5%
10.0%
6.2% 6.4%
The telecom sector has been witnessing increasing investment over the past 10 years. During the Twelfth Plan period, almost 25% of investments are expected to be invested in this sector. O`ad] l`] jgY\k k][lgj `Yk j]eYaf]\ Yl Yk Y h]j[]flY_] g^ l`] gn]jYdd ha]$ l`] l]d][ge k][lgj is expected to witness a CAGR of ~10% from 2002 to 2017. Another sector, which has gained increasing prominence is the oil and gas segment with the Governments spend on the sector expected to increase from 3.5% of its total infrastructure spend during the Tenth Plan to 6.4% in the Twelfth Plan.
The National Highway Development Programme (NHDP) has planned expenditure of INR2.5 trillion. It seeks to award 29,000 km of roads from FY2011 to FY 2015 out of this, 7,300 km. are expected to be awarded in FY12. (Around 70% of such awards are expected to be under the PPP mode.) Till August 2011, 247 PPP projects were awarded under NHDP. Planned NHAI project awards for 7300 kms. (worth INR5 trillion) would result into investments over FY2013 FY2016. During the Twelfth Five Year Plan period, around INR3.6 trillion of investments are expected from the private sector, out of which INR2.5 trillion is likely to be awarded through NHDP projects and the balance through state project awards. Public spending is projected to be predominantly through award of contracts by state governments and strengthening of the rural road network.
Ministry of Road Transport and Highways 201011 annual report; Source: Sector focus: infrastructure data, Indian Infrastructure, August 2011. Pg. 174; India Infrastructure - PPP Opportunity, May 11, Ernst & Young publications.
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Indian Railways (IR) network spans over 64,000 route km, making it the worlds thirdlargest rail network in terms of size besides being the largest passenger carrier and the fourth-largest rail freight carrier globally. In the Twelfth Five Year Plan total investment is estimated to be INR29 billion. Construction intensity in railways is around 78%, which will result in opportunities worth INR23 billion during Twelfth Five Year Plan. Investments in railways (INR billion)
3500 3000 2500 2000 1500 1000 500 0 Tenth Plan Eleventh Plan Twelfth Plan
Source: Sector focus: railways, Indian Infrastructure, August 2011 Planned investment: Investment in Infrastructure during the Eleventh Five Year Plan, The Secretariat for Infrastructure, Planning Commission, www.infrastructure.gov.in Private and public share: Investment in Infrastructure during the Eleventh Five Year Plan as published by the Secretariat for Infrastructure Sep 2010
Rail projects in India have been typically the domain of the public sector. However, based on the success of PPP in other infrastructure sectors, the Indian Railways (IR) has begun to take steps to explore the PPP route. Mass Rapid Transit System (MRTS) is expected to comprise a major portion of total planned investments in coming years. During the Twelfth Plan period, private sector spending is expected in MRTS systems in cities such as Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad and Kolkata. The IR is also expected lg afalaYl] HHH hjgb][lk lg eYaflYaf Yf\ \]n]dgh jYadoYq klYlagfk& Al `Yk a\]fla]\ ** stations across India that will be modernized into world- class facilities7. Ka_fa[Yfl ghhgjlmfala]k af Yj]Yk km[` Yk ^j]a_`l$ ljY[c [gfn]jkagf Yf\ hYkk]f_]j corridors are yet to be unbundled by the IR and may be explored on the PPP mode to change the public-private spending mix.
Ports8
India has 13 major ports and around 200 non-major ports, accounting for 95% of the countrys total trade in terms of volume, and around 70% in terms of value. During *((.*())$ [Yj_g ljY^[ Yl Af\aYf hgjlk af[j]Yk]\ Yl Y ;9?J g^ /&10 ^jge .,0&/ million tons to 883 million tons. In the Twelfth Five Year Plan, total investment is estimated to be INR1050 billion. Construction intensity in ports is around 50%, which is expected to result in a construction opportunity worth INR525 billion during the
6 7 8
Indian Infrastructure-Sector report, Religare, 24 June 2010, via Thomson Research; India Infrastructure - PPP Opportunity, May 11, EY Publications. http://www.livemint.com/2008/01/03231547/Tatas-Ambanis-DLF-interested.html Sector focus: ports and shipping, Indian Infrastructure, August 2011; The Indian ports and shipping sector: realizing potential, EY Publications, August 2011
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Twelfth Plan period. The National Maritime Development Programme seeks to add 230 million tonnes per annum in capacity in 10 years. To achieve this, the Ministry of Shipping (MoS) plans to award 24 capacity-expansion projects at major ports, entailing an investment of INR170 billion, by FY12. These projects include a mega container terminal at Chennai port (INR37 billion) and a mechanized berth at Vishakhapatnam (INR2 billion). However, the only project that has been awarded so far is the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust Terminal 49. This is likely to accelerate the process of privatization and port development. The outlook is therefore optimistic for the overall ports sector. Investments in ports (INR billion)
1200 1000 800 600 400 200 0 Tenth Plan Eleventh Plan Twelfth Plan
Source: Indian Infrastructure-Sector report, Religare, 24 June 2010, via Thomson Research; Planning Commission website Planned investment: Investment in Infrastructure during the Eleventh Five Year Plan, The Secretariat for Infrastructure, Planning Commission, www.infrastructure.gov.in Private and public share: Investment in Infrastructure during the Eleventh Five Year Plan as published by the Secretariat for Infrastructure Sep 2010
Airports)(
India has a total of 136 airports with 94 owned by the Airport Authority of India. During *((/*())$ hYkk]f_]j Yf\ ^j]a_`l ljY^[ Yl Af\aYf Yajhgjlk af[j]Yk]\ Yl Y ;9?J g^ 10.44% and 10.93%, respectively, despite the global slowdown. Total investment is estimated to be INR662 billion in the Twelfth Five Year Plan. Construction intensity in airports is around 42%, which is expected to result in construction opportunity worth INR278 billion. With prospects for growth in tier II and III cities looking bright, the Eafakljq g^ ;anad 9naYlagf Eg;9! `Yk Yhhjgn]\ f]o _j]]f]d\ Yajhgjlk oal` Y lglYd afn]kle]fl g^ AFJ+*( Zaddagf& L`] FYna EmeZYa Yajhgjl ak lg Z] l`] dYj_]kl _j]]f]d\ airport in terms of cost and capacity and is expected to be bid out this year. The nodal Y_]f[q ;A<;G ak af l`] hjg[]kk g^ fYdaraf_ l`] Za\ e][`Yfake& @go]n]j$ ^]YkaZadalq of such large projects continues to be a concern. Over time, institutionalization of a transparent and competitive bidding process is the only way to decide the fate of such large projects. Infrastructure linkages are also immensely important, since provision of adequate road, rail and water transport facilities will be critical for the success of large -scale airport development plans (such as the one planned in the Navi Mumbai area).
Defence Ministry told to speed up port project clearance The Economic Times, 7 October 2011. 10 Sector focus: airports and airlines, Indian Infrastructure, November 2010; India Infrastructure - PPP opportunity, May 11, Ernst & Young publications; Sector focus: civil aviation, Indian Infrastructure, August 2011.
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During the Twelfth Five Year Plan period, private sector participation is expected to rise to 65%. Major projects undertaken in the PPP format till now include that of the Hyderabad, Delhi, Bangalore and Mumbai airports. The Airports Authority of India is developing 18 new terminals at existing airports on an EPC basis.11
Investments in airports (INR billion)
900 800 700 600 500 400 300 200 100 0 Tenth Plan Eleventh Plan Twelfth Plan
Source: Sector focus: civil aviation, Indian Infrastructure, August 2011 Planned investment: Investment in Infrastructure during the Eleventh Five Year Plan, The Secretariat for Infrastructure, Planning Commission, www.infrastructure.gov.in Private and public share: Investment in Infrastructure during the Eleventh Five Year Plan as published by the Secretariat for Infrastructure Sep 2010
Power)*
Indias total installed power generation capacity (excluding its captive capacity) stood at 1,73,626 MW as of March 2011. Robust economic growth and enhanced industrial Y[lanalq `Yk ka_fa[Yfldq af[j]Yk]\ l`] \]eYf\ ^gj hgo]j af l`] [gmfljq$ d]Y\af_ lg Yk much as 12% peak hour power shortages. This makes a compelling case for further large scale investments in the sector. Between 2007 and 2010, 32,000 MW of generation capacity was added in the country. In the Twelfth Five Year Plan, total investment is estimated to be INR12,576 billion. Construction intensity in the power sector is around 38% at present and is expected to result in construction opportunity worth INR4,780 billion. HjanYl] k][lgj afn]kle]fl ak dac]dq lg af[j]Yk] ka_fa[Yfldq af l`] hgo]j k]_e]fl with the announcement of 14 ultra mega power projects (UMPPs). Out of these, four (Sasan, Mundra, Krishna Patnam and Tilaiya ) have already been awarded to private players. What is most heartening about the power sector is the record growth in generation capacity addition and initiatives that have helped to create sound policies and regulatory frameworks, which have had a positive effect on promoting competition and investments in the sector.
18
13 Mid-term Appraisal Eleventh Five Year Plan (20072012), Planning Commission website
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India is witnessing a sharp change in its demographic composition. Factors including rapid economic growth and migration of the rural population to urban areas is leading to a never before seen growth in urbanization levels. Both government and independent YfYdqk]k hjgb][l [gdgkkYd _mj]k ^gj l`] f]pl \][Y\]& MjZYfarYlagf ak Ydkg ]ph][l]\ to lead to a structural shift in the Indian economy, which is likely to transition from primarily being an agrarian economy to a more service and manufacture-driven one. Urban infrastructure investment requirement: 2012-31 (INR billion)
45000 40000 35000 30000 25000 20000 15000 10000 5000 0 Renewable and redevelopment including slums Storm water drains Total expenditure Capacity building LjY^[ kmhhgjl infrastructure Solid waste management Urban transport Street lighting Water supply Sewerage Other sectors Urban roads
Source: Report on urban infrastructure and services by the high powered expert committee from national institute of urban affairs
Increased urbanization is expected to lead to the emergence of more megacities and bigger population clusters, which is likely to have a positive effect on the number of =H; hjgb][lk Z]af_ YoYj\]\& L`] lgh *(+( [ala]k Yj] hjgb][l]\ lg YlljY[l Y ka_fa[Yfl portion of the rural population, who migrate in search of job opportunities. Given the eYfm^Y[lmjaf_ Yf\ af\mkljaYd ZYk] Ydj]Y\q hj]k]fl af l`]k] [ala]k$ Yf af[j]Yk]\ afmp g^ people at a time of economic growth is likely to lead several of these cities emerging as mega cities in coming years. The importance of urban infrastructure as a component of Indias infrastructure story can be gauged from the fact that by 2030, Indian cities are expected to contribute up to 70% of the countrys GDP and around 85% of its taxes. This poses both a challenge and an opportunity. The magnitude of the challenge can be understood from the fact that our urban areas may be required to accommodate an additional 250300 million people in about two decades. These areas are already facing severe infrastructure constraints and this situation will only get worse if remedial action is not taken. Cities such as Mumbai and Delhi are cracking under the population pressure being exerted on them, which is leading to abysmally low levels of basic infrastructure facilities for water, sanitation, transportation, etc. The opportunity, however, lies in the fact that the Government estimates that its urban infrastructure investments will be around INR40 trillion over the next two decades.
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G^ l`ak$ Y_k`ah _gn]jfe]fl k[`]e]k km[` Yk l`] BYoY`YjdYd F]`jm FYlagfYd MjZYf Renewal Mission (JNNURM) are estimated to involve investments of about INR605 billion, which translates to around INR400 billion worth of EPC works15. Under the JNNURM, a total of 533 projects have already been sanctioned as of June 2011. The Twelfth Five Year Plan envisages an investment of INR1.8 trillion on water supply Yf\ kYfalYlagf$ AFJ) ljaddagf gf ajja_Ylagf$ AFJ) ljaddagf gf jmjYd jgY\k Yf\ qgn]jk Yf\ INR1 trillion on urban transport facilities including MRTS/ BRTS/monorails and water transport facilities.
Sector Drainage/Stormwater drainage Roads/Flyovers Water supply Sewerage Urban renewal Mass Rapid Transport System Other urban Solid waste management Development of heritage areas Preservation of water bodies Parking Others Total No of projects 70 97 147 108 11 21 15 41 6 4 5 8 533
Out of the total 533 projects, 27.5% are water supply projects, 20.2% sewerage hjgb][lk$ )0&* jgY\ Yf\ qgn]j hjgb][lk$ )+&) Yj] j]dYl]\ lg \jYafY_] Yf\ /&/ lg solid waste management. Among the states, Maharashtra has the maximum number of projects (78), which comprise 14.6% of the total 533 projects. In terms of absolute spending, water, sewerage, and roads and transportation have taken up almost 84% of the funds spent under JNNURM. JNNURM Spending by sector for UIG and UIDSSMT
3% 12% 1% 41% Water supply 24% Sewerage Roads and transport Drainage Solid waste management Urban renewal
19%
Source: Report on urban infrastructure and services by the high powered expert committee from national institute of urban affairs
15 Assuming construction intensity of 66% - based on construction intensity of water supply and irrigation
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The infrastructure linked EPC sector is set for a big leap in India. We are expecting to see projects in roads and highways go on the fast track. While the MRTS is a step forward for the railways, unbundling of reforms are eagerly awaited. Also as the process of privatization has begun for ports, the sector shows positive prospects, as do the airports segment where Tier II and III cities are the focus of attention. The power sector is expected to see private players get a boost, while oil and gas see doubled investments in the XIIth plan. As our cities swell, urban infrastructure promises to be the story of the next decade.
Sushi Shyamal, Partner, Transaction Advisory Services, Transportation Infrastructure and Construction Sector Leader, Ernst & Young India
Around 41% of the funds have been expended on water supply, and going forward, ka_fa[Yfl [YhalYd `Yk lg Z] kh]fl bmkl lg [Yl]j lg l`] `m_] h]fl%mh \]eYf\ ^gj oYl]j& The need for reliable water infrastructure is accentuated by the fact that no Indian city can claim to have 24x7 water supply many continue to get water for only a couple of hours every day, and sometimes, the quality of water is questionable. On a positive note, authorities have now noticed these issues and we are witnessing ka_fa[Yfl afn]kle]flk eY\] af l`]k] Yj]Yk& KaeadYjdq$ mjZYf ljYfkhgjlYlagf$ oYkl] management and mass housing are urban sub-sectors, which are seeing traction by way of government and private investment. Encouragingly, construction intensity is one of the highest (at 66%) for urban infrastructure projects. A look at the ranking of states in terms of urbanization levels points to geographies where an opportunity exits. The majority of JNNURM projects are awarded in heavily urbanized states such as Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka, which are facing severe infrastructure pressures due of urbanization. Urbanisation ranking: top 10 major states in India
Tamil Nadu Maharashtra Gujarat Punjab Karnataka Haryana West Bengal Andhra Pradesh Madhya Pradesh Kerala 0% 10% 20% 30% Urban population
Source: Report on urban infrastructure and services by the high powered expert committee from national institute of urban affairs
40%
50%
60%
In the case of projects relating to water supply, transportation, sewerage, etc., the bulk g^ l`] [YhalYd kh]fl ak gf =H;$ o`a[` lYc]k mk lg l`] [jmp g^ l`] klgjq l`Yl ka_fa[Yfl business opportunities exist in the urban infrastructure space. L`] j][]fl mjjq g^ afn]kle]flk Yf\ hjgb][l Yffgmf[]e]flk af l`] mjZYf af^jYkljm[lmj] space has caught the attention of the private sector and has led to many companies queuing up to take up such projects. Specialized companies are emerging that have capabilities in urban infrastructure, and value is getting created for all stakeholders. However, we have not even scratched the surface as far as plugging the infrastructure gap that currently exists is concerned. Even if a fraction of the projected capital is spent on urban infrastructure, we will see an unparalleled business opportunity for the private sector, which will lead to the emergence of a new set of infrastructure czars in the private sector.
22
Clientele base* (government-private ratio) 50: 50 80: 20 50: 50 50:50 80: 20 20: 80 80: 20 20: 80 20: 80 80: 20 20: 80
Order of models adopted by Government PPP -> Annuity -> EPC EPC -> PPP PPP -> EPC EPC -> PPP EPC -> limited PPP Cash contracts -> EPC EPC EPC EPC EPC EPC
The Government is expected to continue awarding projects in the EPC and PPP formats. However, in the PPP model, project owners or developers ultimately award work as EPC or other forms of contracts to either their own contracting entities on an arms- length ZYkak gj lg l`aj\ hYjlq [gfljY[lgjk& 9f =H; [gfljY[lgj ak ]ph][l]\ lg Z] Z]f]l]\ through contracts awarded by government clients and private developers. As the PPP model gains popularity, there is likely to be a higher dependence on the private sector for contracts being awarded. Contractors are increasingly opting to convert themselves from executors to developers and risk takers due to the Governments preference for awarding models on an ownership basis. The Government has chosen to adopt various models to award contracts and for execution of projects. It is evident that the PPP mode is gaining prominence in infrastructure development. This has resulted in huge opportunities for EPC contractors. The private sector is driving this growth opportunity by investing equity in such PPP infrastructure projects. With its clear focus on undertaking and encouraging infrastructure development in the country, the Government is giving high preference to the PPP model. This has led to the entry of an increasing number of private players in l`] k][lgj& :] al afl]jfYlagfYd Yf\ \ge]kla[ \]n]dgh]jk gj fYf[af_ afklalmlagfk$ ]n]jq private participant is eager to tap this opportunity.
23
Government PPP contract award EPC contractor (owns asset) EPC contract award Contract execution
Contract execution
Government Contract Af]^[a]fl af j]\m[af_ lae] Yf\ cost overrun especially due to external risks such as land acquisition, regulatory approvals Contractor job stops after construction and handover of the facility Based on project margins None Only execution risk Contractors revenue is dependent only on the construction of the facility Contractor is only responsible for constructing the facility
Private Concession Accumulating interest costs, stringent contractual penalties, delay in revenue generation force a private operator under a PPP contract to complete project development within schedule and budget. HjanYl] hYjlq `Yk lg jmf l`] ^Y[adalq Yf\ af]^[a]fl ^Y[adalq may dent its revenue, hence the facility is made more ]^[a]fl& Returns on equity investments Project may deliver upsides On the private player The revenue of the private player is generally dependent on the smooth running of the project Private partner is responsible for operation and maintenance of the facility
24
Construction Companies
Foreign Participants
Financial Investors
Business Conglomerates
Presence across various facets e.g. power, highways, airport etc Entry into EPC as a means of backward integrations
2-3 decades of presence in the EPC business Participation in PPP projects to gain captive EPC contracts Preference to award PPP -> Annuity -> EPC contracts by government
Established global concessionaires in European / Asian markets Interest in India as high growth market Degrowth in their local markets
Domestic and local infrastructure funds/ institutions Participation in the sector as an infrastructure investment strategy
Cash rich industrial groups Participation in the infrastructure sector due to its high growth and captive EPC businesses Entry strategy through M&A
Illustrative Players
L&T, HCC, IVRCL, Gammon, KMC, Madhucon, NCC, Soma, Patel Engg, Sadbhav EPC participation and asset development for captive EPC In-house
IJM, Isolux, Hochtief, Vinci, Atlantia, Leighton, Balfour Beatty, Plus Expressway India entry strategy through available opportunities In-house and subcontracting of low value works
Strategy
Long term asset play across infrastructure sectors In-house capabilities or third party
Investors with high sector expertise becoming joint developers Third party or JV partner
Late entrants, preferring inorganic growth route In-house capabilities or third party
Private
25
EPC Market
Sub-Sector
Competition
Complexity
Entry Barriers
Opportunity Size
Current Status
Infrastructure Construction
X X X X X
X X X X
X X X X
X X X X X X
X X
High
X X
Low
X X
Medium
Building Construction Oil & Gas EPC Power EPC Specialized EPC
Sectors such as roads, airports, power and urban infrastructure are very attractive for investors in Indian markets. This may be due to relatively low entry barriers in these markets, a strong project pipeline or the huge opportunity size. These sectors are also attracting the interest of foreign players. On the other hand, sectors such as the railways and buildings are relatively lower on the attractiveness scale the railways await unbundling and buildings the recovery of the real estate sector. As a result, the market as a whole has become a mixed bag of opportunities in which a variety of players are participating. Some have transformed themselves in order to adapt to the ever changing needs of the market; others have chosen the inorganic route to tap its growth potential. However, with opportunity comes associated business risks, and it is the ability of players to identify such risks and challenges that will help to sustain this dynamic market.
26
27
Heading
28
29
Environmental risks
Unfavorable climatic condition Yf\ lghg_jYh`q Mf^YeadaYjalq oal` lghg_jYh`q' terrain; resettlement and rehabilitation; utility shifting
Technical risks
Afkm^[a]fl hj]daeafYjq j]k]Yj[` gf k[gh]$ j]kgmj[] YnYadYZadalq$ technology requirement leading to inaccurate time and cost estimations ;gkl ]klaeYl]k Yf\ fYf[af_ Ykkmehlagfk
Financial risks
Foreign exchange and interest jYl] m[lmYlagf <]dYq af hYqe]flk ^jge [da]fl3 unavailability of resources Unfamiliarity with the local dYok$ lYp Yf\ j]_mdYlagfk
Contractual/legal risks
Economic downturn
Unfamiliarity with the local laws and regulations Limited say in contract negotiations
16 For our analysis we have included following construction companies: large sized HCC Ltd, Gammon India Ltd, IVRCL Ltd, Larsen &Turbo, NCC Ltd, Simplex Infra, Patel Engineering , Era Infra; Mid-Consolidated Construction Consortium Lt, Jyoti Structures Ltd, Ahluwalia Contracts (India) Ltd, SPML Infra Ltd, ITD Cementation India Ltd, JMC Projects (India) Ltd, Sadbhav Engineering Ltd, Pratibha Industries Ltd; Small-KNR Constructions Ltd, J Kumar Infraprojects Ltd, Supreme Infrastructure India Ltd, Tantia Constructions and Welspun Projects.
30
EYjc]l h]j^gjeYf[]
Large companies have been hit less hard than smaller companies, because their advantage of economies of scale seem to have acted in their favor. The blow of losses ^jge kge] hjgb][lk o]j] ZYdYf[]\ Zq l`] hjglk g^ gl`]jk& >gj ]pYehd]$ o`ad] eYjc]l capitalization (mcap) declined across all categories of companies, the mcap of large companies declined by 5% over FY0511. Mid- and small-sized companies were not so lucky the mcap of mid- sized companies declined by a staggering 20 % and those of small- sized companies by 27 % during the same period. Large companies: movement in valuation multiples
2.5 60 2.0
40
1.5
0.0 FY07 P/E FY08 FY09 FY10 FY11 Market Cap/Sales (secondary axis)
Things were much brighter for the industry between FY05- 08. Driven by economic growth and high infrastructure spending, construction companies registered high hjglYZadalq Yf\ kljgf_ nYdmYlagfk& DYj_] gj_YfarYlagfk kYo Yf Ydd%lae] `a_` af nYdmYlagfk trading at a P/E multiple of 29.7 in FY07, while mid and small companies traded at multiples of 19.1 and 12.1, respectively. The track became slippery once the recession set in while revenue growth was still strong due to order book positions (with revenue growth of 22%, 20% and 41% in large, ea\% Yf\ keYdd [gehYfa]k$ j]kh][lan]dq!$ egkl j]hgjl]\ eml]\ hjglYZadalq d]Y\af_ lg reduced valuations. Large companies were trading at a P/E multiple of 6.5 and mid and small companies at multiples of 4.6 and 2.7, respectively, in FY09.
31
Today, while companies have recovered from FY09 levels, they are still trading at huge discounts. Current trading P/E multiples for large, mid and small-sized companies are in the range of 14.0, 12.8 and 4.3, respectively. It has been observed that small-sized companies are under the maximum stress in current market conditions. Small companies: movement in valuation multiples
1.6 60 1.4 1.2 40 1.0 0.8 0.6 20 0.4 0.2 0 FY05 FY06 EV/EBITDA
Source: Company annual reports; BSE
0.0 FY07 P/E FY08 FY09 FY10 FY11 Market Cap/Sales (secondary axis)
32
L`ak lj]f\ Yhh]Yjk lg `Yn] eYfa^]kl]\ alk]d^ af hjgl _mj]k Yk o]dd l`] H9L eYj_afk g^ dYj_]% kar]\ [gehYfa]k o]j] Yl ,&1$ o`ad] l`]q \ahh]\ ^gj ea\% Yf\ keYdd jek Yl )&) Yf\ -$ j]kh][lan]dq$ af >Q(-& KaeadYj lj]f\k o]j] gZk]jn]\ af l`]aj Yn]jY_] hjglYZadalq af >Q)) +&0$ +&. Yf\ ,&) ^gj dYj_]$ ea\% Yf\ keYdd jek$ j]kh][lan]dq! Yf\ hjglk CAGR (+4%, +8% and -19%, respectively). C]q f\af_k gn]j >Q(->Q))!2
Revenue ~20% growth over FY08-FY11 While this is not comparable to the growth over FY05FY08, revenue performance over the past three years has been robust. =:AL<9 eYj_afk v )+ gn]j l`] kap q]Yj h]jag\ Ea\%kar]\ jek `Yn] oalf]kk]\ pressure on their EBITDA margins. Interest and depreciation costs Increased across all category of companies, af\a[Ylaf_ af[j]Yk] af \]Zl Zmj\]f Yf\ \][daf] af Ykk]l lmjfgn]j ]^[a]f[q PAT margins Declined to 3%-4% across all companies Order books Remained robust and increased at a CAGR of around 20% - 35%
Unit Large-sized companies EBITDA margins Interest Depreciation PAT margins Mid-sized companies EBITDA margins Interest Depreciation PAT margins KeYdd%kar]\ [gehYfa]k EBITDA margins Interest Depreciation PAT margins % of revenue % of revenue % of revenue % of revenue 13.3% 3.5% 2.9% 4.6% 16.4% 3.8% 3.0% 7.0% 13.7% 3.8% 3.3% 4.15% % of revenue % of revenue % of revenue % of revenue 6.8% 3.3% 1.9% 1.1% 11.0% 2.9% 1.3% 4.7% 11.0% 4.4% 1.6% 3.6% % of revenue % of revenue % of revenue % of revenue 10.3% 2.8% 1.6% 4.9% 13.5% 3.6% 1.6% 5.9% 13.1% 5.5% 1.9% 3.8% FY05 FY08 FY11
L`] j]Ykgfk ^gj l`ak kdgo\gof af hjglk Yj] eYfq lae] gn]jjmfk \m] lg j]_mdYlgjq Zglld]f][ck$ [geeg\alq hja[] m[lmYlagfk$ fgf%j][]ahl g^ lae]dq hYqe]flk ^jge clients, inability to receive design in time and scope change approvals from clients include only some of them. All these factors, however, adversely impact project cash gok af[j]Ykaf_$ l`] f]]\ lg gZlYaf l`aj\ hYjlq ^mf\af_ ^jge ZYfck Yf\ fYf[aYd afklalmlagfk& L`] Y\\]\ \]Zl Zmj\]f Y^^][lk gn]jYdd [gehYfq hjglYZadalq Yf\ `Yeh]jk shareholder returns. Between FY08 and FY11, companies have been adversely impacted by the slowdown in project awards, execution hurdles and rising interest rates. This has resulted in stretched working capital and has led to an increased debt burden on the balance sheet. With valuations increasingly being driven by earnings rather than by the order book, [gfkljm[lagf klg[ck `Yn] \][daf]\ ka_fa[Yfldq& L`]j]^gj]$ l`] ^g[mk [d]Yjdq f]]\k lg shift from top-line growth to bottom-line recovery today.
33
57.1% 46.6% 40.0% 22.0% 4.7% PAT growth FY 08-FY 11 Order book growth
21.6%
130.2%
184.4%
40.7%
35.0% 20.0%
34
15%
Source: Infrastructure data, India Infrastructure, August 2011
Oal` afYlagfYjq hj]kkmj]k hdY_maf_ l`] Af\aYf ][gfgeq$ km[` lae] \]dYqk d]Y\ lg Yf effective cost escalation. The 293 delayed projects have added an incremental cost of INR682.7 billion, amounting to a 22.3% escalation. The highway sector has seen the maximum number of delayed projects, predominantly due to land acquisition and Right of Way issues. Other key sectors plagued by cost overruns are the petroleum, power and the railways. Cost overrun in various segments17
Sector Roads and transport Power Oil & gas Railways Urban infrastructure Coal Other Number of projects delayed 111 41 33 25 2 18 63 Delay period (months) 1 90 1 83 1 74 3 225 NA 8 64 Cost overrun (INR billion) NA 45 (4%) 181 (45%) NA 154 (102%) 22 (16%) -
17 293 delayed projects led to cost overrun of Rs 68K crore, Realty Plus, 23 February 2011, via Factiva, 2011 Adsert Web Solutions Pvt. Ltd.
35
Some key issues and their impact of delay in time and cost overruns:
Issue Ambiguity in design and engineering kh][a[Ylagfk Land acquisition challenges Delay in procurement and delivery of critical equipment Shortage of construction materials Change of scope Lack of coordination between various participants (vendors, sub-contractors, etc) Delay in regulatory clearance Af]^[a]fl hjgb][l Zm\_]laf_ Yf\ dY[c g^ contingency funds Rise in the cost of raw materials Delay in payments by the owner Impact on time Delay in arrival of detailed drawings by consultant Delay in project completion Impacts several activities, depending on the need for equipment in the critical path Delay in dependent activities impacting subsequent activities as well Impacts overall project time line and resource utilization Idle time of several resources <]jYad hjgb][lk Zq af\]fal] lae]daf] _ _ EYq \]dYq l`] hjgb][l a^ mfYZd] lg dd l`] gap created by the delay in payments Impact on cost _ =phgk]k hjgb][l lg afYlagfYjq [gkl ]k[YdYlagfk Overall increase in project cost due to idle time of several resources Overall increase in project cost due to idle time of several resources Impacts cost and working capital cycles due to the extra work Extra cost incurred due to lower productivity and increased idleness =phgk]k hjgb][l lg afYlagfYjq [gkl ]k[YdYlagfk % ]kh][aYddq p]\ [gklk g^ ]imahe]flk Yf\ dYZgj Cost of project deviates from budget with high variation Impacts margins as cost escalation clause may only cover some of the costs Contractor may have to raise funds through additional equity or debt to fund working capital
Some recent cases of EPC projects getting delayed or experiencing cost overruns181920212223242526
Project Mumbai Metro 119 Kalindi Kunj by-pass project20 Bandra-Worli sea link project21 Reason for delay Execution challenges in most crowded areas Project awaiting land approval from UP government Midway design adjustments along with issues related to environmental clearance and public interest litigations State government requesting change in original design and scope Chhattisgarh UMPP delayed due to unavailability of coal linkages Lack of consensus between Planning Commission and Urban Development Ministry about the project partners Clearances from The Central Electricity Authority (CEA) and The Expenditure & Finance Committee (EFC) of the Ministry of Finance due Cost or time escalation Anticipated one year delay Time delay of seven years and cost escalation Lae] \]dYq g^ n] q]Yjk Yf\ [gkl ]k[YdYlagf
Worli Haji Ali project22 Ultra Mega Power Project (UMPP)23 Chennai Metro Rail24
No estimates released as of now Project yet to take off Project cost likely to increase by 23%25
18 E]ljg gf] kdYl]\ ^gj *()* fak`2 EEJ<9$ Hindustan Times, 5 September 2011, via Factiva, 2011. HT Media Ltd . 19 Seven Years Later, it is Nonstarter, NBM & CW, 1 May 2010, via Factiva, 2010. NBM Media. 20 New Mumbai bridge to open after a decade of delay as India struggles to improve infrastructure, Associated Press Newswires, 30 June 2009 via Factiva, 2009 The Associated Press. 21 Work On Worli-Haji Ali Sea Link Not Starting On July 3, The Times of India, 2 July 2011, via Factiva 2011 The Times of India Group. 22 Coal glitches will delay Chhattisgarh UMPP bids, DNA, 1 May 2010, via Factiva, 2010. Diligent Media Corporation Ltd. 23 Chennai Metro awaits Cabinet nod, The Economic Times, 21 December 2008, via Factiva, 2008 The Times of India Group 24 Chennai metro project cost likely to rise 23%,, Business Standard, 29 September 2010, http://www.business-standard.com/india/news/ chennai-metro-project-cost-likely-to-rise-23/409557/ (not found in Factiva). 25 Fresh hurdles may further delay Polavaram project, The Hindu, 31 May 2010, via Factiva (c) 2010 Kasturi & Sons Ltd . 26 Polavaram project cost escalates, The Hindu, 19 November 2009, via Factiva, (c) 2009 Kasturi & Sons Ltd.
36
Some factors such as land acquisition and environmental clearances may be beyond the hmjna]o g^ l`] [gfljY[lgjk k[gh]& @go]n]j$ ]^[a]fl hjgb][l eYfY_]e]fl [Yf eala_Yl] many controllable risks. As increasing cost escalations and project delays become a reality in todays infrastructure and construction space, contractors have realized the need for strong project management frameworks.
K[Yj[alq g^ eYfhgo]j
The Indian construction sector has organized manpower of nearly 1.2 million and unorganized manpower of over 30 million.27 However, alternative opportunities such as in the IT sector, government guaranteed job schemes for villagers and emergence of opportunities in other emerging sectors has or can potentially lure away much of the workforce. Almost simultaneously, the exponential growth in the sector has generated a labor crunch, thereby increasing the demand for the existing workforce. A construction associations interaction with construction industry participants reveals that construction projects are getting delayed due to around 40% shortage of skilled construction workers.28 Based on Indias economic growth and the sectors opportunity potential, it is estimated that about 58.3 million people will be employed in the sector by 2022.29 The Indian Government has implemented its National Commission of Skill Development program to create human capital for various sectors including construction in response of the countrys need for skilled labor.30
these variations or been insulated from such movements. The key takeaway from this phenomenon is the necessity to factor in all anticipated variations while ensuring cost competitiveness to win orders.
FY06
FY07
FY08
FY09
FY10
FY11
FY06
FY07
FY08
FY09
FY10
FY11
=^[a]f[q g^ eY[`af]jq
With many Indian companies winning high-value and complex projects, it has been observed that there has been a concomitant increase in their preference to be owners of equipment as compared to the hire model. Evidence substantiates this fact through increasing depreciation costs over the years. It is also essential for companies to maintain a prudent mix of owned and leased assets and work on healthy asset turnover ratios.31 Moreover, they need to realize that when they procure and own an asset base g^ kh][aYdar]\ eY[`af]jq j]imaj]\ ^gj kh][a[ gf]%lae] bgZk$ l`]q jakc \][j]Ykaf_ l`]aj ]^[a]f[a]k Yf\ a\d] j]kgmj[]k& L`]j]^gj]$ lg eYaflYaf l`]aj hjglYZadalq$ [gehYfa]k k`gmd\ hdYf l`]aj j]imaj]e]fl ^gj eY[`af]jq ]^[a]fldq$ c]]haf_ af eaf\ ]^^][lan] gf% going utilization and cost impacts.
31 9kk]l Lmjfgn]j JYlag2 \]f]\ Yk fmeZ]j g^ lae]k j]n]fm]k'lmjfgn]j Y[`a]n]\ gn]j l`] Ykk]l base owned by a company
38
39
40
K][lgj \an]jka[Ylagf
Players traditionally developed skill-sets in their chosen infrastructure sub-sectors. While building a niche is important, it is equally necessary to have competence in other sub-sectors. It is a known fact that concentration in a particular sub-sector could lead to impediments to the future growth of organizations. None of the sectors are insulated from the vagaries of time. These include the highways where there is stiff competition, irrigation where the project pipeline has been ka_fa[Yfldq \]hd]l]\$ hgjlk l`Yl Yj] `a_`dq j]_mdYl]\$ hgo]j o`]j] kgmj[af_ g^ [gYd and obtaining environmental clearance prevent project take-off, railways which are yet to freely explore privatization or airports which have yet to develop a critical mass for \]n]dghe]fl& >gj Yfq hYjla[mdYj kmZ%k][lgj lg kmklYaf [gfklYfl _jgol` ak \a^[mdl af Yf environment with evolving viewpoints and policies. L`]j]^gj]$ Yk l`] Y_]%gd\ kYqaf_ _g]k \an]jka[Ylagf ak l`] Z]kl eala_Yfl lg Zmkaf]kk adversities. Companies are spreading their services to several sub-sectors to reduce l`]aj Zmkaf]kk jakck Yf\ eYaflYaf `]Ydl`q gj\]j Zggck$ Zmad\ imYda[Ylagfk$ aehjgn] ]^[a]f[a]k$ khj]Y\ l`]aj [da]fl ZYk]$ j]\m[] \]h]f\]f[a]k$ ]f`Yf[] l`]aj hjglYZadalq$ and above, diversify.
Sector reference: size, complexity and competition
5 Railways 4 Complexity Ports 3 2 1 0 0 0.5 1 1.5 2 2.5 Competetion
Source: Ernst & Young analysis
Railways
Water
Roads
Recent trends
Slow movement of irrigation projects causing irrigation- focused companies to diversify Stiff competition and pricing in the highway space resulting in some players being reluctant to participate Exploration of new sectors including the defense, nuclear, aerospace, contract mining, power transmission and urban infrastructure segments
41
:mkaf]kk'Jgd] \an]jka[Ylagf
The value chain generally encompasses multiple-functions and roles comprising developers, contractors and suppliers, along with other participants such as design [gfkmdlYflk$ hjgb][l eYfY_]jk Yf\ fYf[]jk& Af j][]fl q]Yjk$ [gfkljm[lagf [gehYfa]k have demonstrated an increasing trend and willingness to gain a presence across the value chain. Contractors are forming alliances with project management companies to handle complex projects and enter the arena of engineering, procurement, construction and management (EPCM). Contractors and developers interchangeably perform dual roles. Developers have been adopting strategies ranging from inorganic growth to in-house startups to play a greater role within the construction space. Suppliers and fYf[]jk Yj] Y\ghlaf_ l`] jgd]k g^ [gfljY[lgjk Yf\ \]n]dgh]jk& The primary reasons leading to the emergence of new roles across the value chain in the engineering and construction industry are rising competition, the increasing complexity of projects, requirement of technical expertise and knowhow, and the selection criterion for bidding, including tender offer eligibility norms, and cost and time constraints. Inter-changing roles
Developer
Contractor
Supplier
42
Recent trends
;gehYfa]k `Yn] \an]jka]\ aflg k][lgjk l`Yl g^^]j f]o ghhgjlmfala]k af Y ZjgY\% based revenue base. Most civil EPC contractors are foraying into PPP opportunities, especially into the highway sector. Large construction companies and developers are moving higher along the value chain and creating in-house PMC and high value engineering divisions. Financial institutions are venturing into the development space, based on their infrastructure skills. Most private power producers such as Lanco Infratech, GMR Energy and GVK Energy have opted to chose suppliers through joint ventures with international suppliers such as Mitsubishi, GE, Hitachi andAlstom. Kge] fYf[aYd afklalmlagfk km[` Yk AD>K Yf\ A<>; `Yn] egn]\ Ydgf_ l`] nYdm] chain. For example, IL&FS has ventured into project development through ITNL and subsequently entered contracting through IL&FS Engineering 32.
Contractor
Developer
GMR, GVK developing in-house construction business BGR energy foray into EPC; Tecpro, TRF, McNallys venture into power EPC
Supplier
43
Due to the shrinking global economy and increasing opportunities in India, several European players are exploring the possibility of an entry into the Indian markets. Four Naf[a$ :gmq_m]k$ @g[`la]^ Yf\ 9;K! gml g^ l`] lgh n] =mjgh]Yf _dgZYd [gfljY[lgjk33 are evaluating the prospect of entering India and are seeking joint ventures on Indian turf. Several other international players such as Toyo of Japan, Samsung of Korea, Leighton of Australia, Bechtel of USA and IJM of Malaysia have already established their presence in India and undertaken some landmark projects in the country. The presence of global players in the Indian industry provides the following value additions:
Access to latest technology and equipment: For instance, a strategic partnership between Reliance Industries Ltd. (RIL) and British Petroleum (BP) would help RIL to gain access to deep water exploration technology for its KG basin and augment its production levels. Access to global project management and risk management capabilities Elimination of out-dated practices and improved quality and work-practices due to increased competition Indian players planning to diversify to new sectors without any prior experience in them opportunity to move up the value chain by partnering with foreign players with sector expertise
33 http://enr.construction.com/toplists/GlobalContractors/001-100.asp
44
Similarly, leading Indian construction houses have ventured into global waters seeking strategic tie-ups and superior technologies. While most purchases have been distress acquisitions, the strategic intent has been to bring home the technology. Lastly, many contractors have expanded their horizons to bid and execute projects in global markets, primarily in the Middle East and Africa. Punj Lloyd and KEC International have already enhanced their international presence in regions where rapid infrastructure development and industrial growth offer ample opportunities. Others such as Gammon (through its Italian acquisition), L&T, Patel (through its US acquisition), HCC (through its Swiss acquisition) are making selective entries on a case-to-case basis.
Recent trends
Active interest of international players in Indian PPP projects, especially in the highways sector, e.g., the recent award of the Kishangarh-Udaipur-Ahmedabad mega highway project that had 11 shortlisted bidding consortiums, 8 of which had foreign partners Indian companies evaluating distress purchase options in international markets, especially in Europe, the Middle East and Africa
?jgol` l`jgm_` hjanYl] ]imalq Yf\' or mergers and acquisitions and joint ventures
L`] af^jYkljm[lmj] k][lgj `Yk oalf]kk]\ Y ka_fa[Yfl af[j]Yk] af hjanYl] ]imalq investments, driven by government support and attrctive opportunities available in India. Between FY07 and FY11 (up to August 2011), 208 private equity deals worth INR697.6 billion took place across the infrastructure sectors.34 Maximum investment has been made in the power sector (close to 45% of the total private equity infrastructure investment between 2008 and 2010).35 Private equity in the construction sector has been to the tune of 8% of the total private equity infrastructure investment over this period. Companies necessarily resort to raising fYf[]k l`jgm_` l`] hjanYl] ]imalq jgml] af [aj[meklYf[]k o`]j]af l`]aj ZYdYf[] k`]]lk are over-leveraged and it may not be healthy for them to raise more debt. Private equity is also raised under circumstances wherein companies want to establish their benchmark valuations. Primarily, the funds are utilized to meet working capital requirements, asset funding or debt retirements.
34 K][lgj ^g[mk2 Af^jYkljm[lmj] Yf\ fYf[]$ Af\aY Af^jYkljm[lmj]$ 9m_mkl *()) 35 India private equity report 2011, BAIN & Company
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Competition is ushering an urge for consolidation by major companies. Large foreign corporates increasingly view M&A as an entry strategy and domestic players are buying stake in foreign companies ^gj k[Yd] Yf\ l][`fgdg_q!$ O`ad]$ l`]j] ak Ydkg Y ka_fa[Yfl afl]j]kl ^jge hjanYl] ]imalq jek oal` Yf interest in infrastructure, they have been observed to be selective about their investments.
Kuljit Singh, Partner and Leader, Transaction Advisory Services-Infrastructure Practice, Ernst & Young India
Mergers and acquisitions are also popular. Several pure-play developers who did fgl `Yn] Y [gfkljm[lagf hj]k]f[] Yj] fgo k]]caf_ lg k][mj] l`]aj hjglYZadalq af the construction business in addition to their own segment and have been exploring possibilities to develop the required expertise either organically or inorganically. Moreover, corporate organizations wanting to establish their presence in the infrastructure sector are also actively pursuing opportunities to acquire construction companies, which would grant them immediate access to resource pools and opportunities. Moreover, global players are treading a similar path to establish their footprints in the country. They are also forming joint ventures with construction houses, wherein the former contributes the technology and knowhow and the latter local expertise and coordination. 3637
Investor IDFC 3i Group Motilal Oswal/ IDFC Jacob Ballas Chrys Capital Aquarius India Barings, Sequoia Franklin Templeton Standard Chartered PE Standard Chartered PE
Target GVR Engineers KMC Infratech Ltd GR Infraprojects PNC Infratech Pratibha Industries Vijay Nirman Company Coastal Projects GKC Projects Man Infraconstruction Ramky Infra
Deal size (INR billion) 1.5 5.0 0.8 1.5 1.0 0.3 2.5 0.6 0.7 2.0
Buyer Welspun Infra Projects Sintex Infra Projects HCC Welspun Infratech Gammon India Gammon India Larsen & Toubro Kirloskar Brothers Ltd Larsen& Toubro Italian-Thai Development Plc
Target Leighton Contractors Durha Constructions Karl Steiner (Switzerland) MSK Projects Kgfl]j k&h&Y& AlYdq! Franco Tosi Meccanica Spa (Italy) Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Aban Constructions SapuraCrest Petroleum Skanska Cementation
Deal size (INR billion) 4.7 0.4 1.5 4.0 4.6 5.7 3.0 0.6 0.1 0.8
Stake 35% 30% 66% 61% 50% 75% 51% 36 100% 60% 37 80%
36 Larsen & Toubro enters JV with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries to make super-critical boilers, The Economic Times, 18 April 2007, via merger market. 37 L&T, SapuraCrest Petroleum form JV, mergermarket, 08 june 2006, 2006 mergermarkets limited
46
Recent trends
The nature of private equity transactions have changed from plain vanilla equity investments to structured deals (be it convertibles or preferential instrument). Private equity investors are keen on investment due to their long-term infrastructure potential. Companies that are unwilling to divest at an early stage have also shown a keen interest in raising their mezzanine capital, Investors have shown an interest in investing growth capital in companies with imYdalq gj\]j Zggck$ fa[`] Yj]Yk g^ gh]jYlagfk Yf\ kgmf\ fYf[aYd `]Ydl`& With over 150 participants in the sector and multitude investment opportunities, investors have chosen to make selective investments in the sector. Most merger and acquisition transactions have been undertaken as an entry strategy be it a new geography or sector, or to gain access to technology and participate in complex projects. Mergers and acquisitions may evolve into an optimal strategy for the creation of size and scale; small and mid-sized players may use consider mergers with similar-sized companies as means of inorganic growth.
47
Adequate studies to understand economic and political cycles in the country Appropriate remedies in contracts to factor in any force majeure events Ensuring substantial approvals and land are in place prior to work commencement Onus of procurements to lie with the owner Environment Impact Assessment clearance Adequate geo-technical surveys and climate surveys prior to construction phase planning ;d]Yj mf\]jklYf\af_ g^ klYf\Yj\k Yf\ kh][a[Ylagfk hjagj lg Za\\af_ Appropriate remedies in contracts to factor in any change in design Adequate studies to source procurement of materials and build appropriate transport costs =fkmj] r]jg lgd]jYf[] af JJ Yk al d]Y\k lg af\]fal] \]dYqk Appropriate contractual obligations on owner for unforeseen delays due to utility shifting Detailed understanding of scope of work Detailed BOQ estimation at time of bid Provision for unforeseen costs escalation Clear contractual obligations on both parties for cost escalations to avoid ambiguities Clear payment mechanisms for change in scope provisions Adequate mobilization advance Milestone payments to be recovered within time Appropriate hedging mechanisms for foreign exchange Appropriate interest rate budgeting during bid may also resort to hedging =^[a]fl Zaddaf_ [q[d]k lg Z] Y\ghl]\ Appropriate remedies in contracts to penalize client for delay in payments Consult appropriate legal experts Clearly understand variations from home country laws Appropriate remedies in contracts to factor in force majeure events
Political/ Regulatory
Environment
Technical
Design changes/ inadequacies Availability of resources Resettlement and rehabilitation; utility shifting Cost estimates
Technical Technical
Financial/ Operational
Financial
Liquidity and credit shortage Foreign exchange and afl]j]kl jYl] m[lmYlagfk Delay in payment from owner Unfamiliarity with the local laws and regulations Risks associated with external hazards
Financial
Market
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;gfljY[lmYd YoYj]f]kk
After a contract is awarded, various general and special conditions are captured through a contractual arrangement. Most Indian public sector clients have standard contracts, which the contractors are unable to negotiate. However, private sector clients have negotiated contracts, and astuteness at the early stages can minimize arbitration risks. Many contractors chose to follow the FIDIC38 silver book for EPC contracts, to maintain standardization. FIDIC membership today numbers 86 national member associations, representing about one million professionals39.
;d]Yjdq \]f]\ k[gh] Yf\ lae] h]jag\k ^gj \]dan]jq HYqe]fl [dYmk]k Yf\ Zaddaf_ [q[d]k YhhjghjaYl]dq \]f]\ Price escalation clause with a standard formula Early completion incentive framework/delay penalties Clear process framework in the event of change in scope and design MfYeZa_mgmkdq \]f]\ [dYaek hjg[]\mj] Interest penalty in the event of delay in payments Clear distinction between defect liability and maintenance periods Dispute resolution framework
49
Recent trends
New EPC models in the process of development by NHAI ,wherein the contractor will accept the risk and responsibility for design as well as construction Infrastructure companies permitted to raise funds from overseas markets: In the infrastructure sector, borrowings through external commercial borrowings (ECBs) have increased by over 65% to US$17.4 billion between September 2010 and August 2011. (Source: SEBI) The Government has initiated a proposal for the creation of Infrastructure Debt >mf\k A<>k! lg Y[[]d]jYl] Yf\ ]f`Yf[] l`] go g^ dgf_%l]je \]Zl af af^jYkljm[lmj] projects the proposal is still at the policy stage. Announcement of the Takeout Financing scheme under the Union Budget 200910 and setting up of the India Infrastructure Finance Company Limited (IIFCL) as a kh][aYd hmjhgk] n]`a[d] ^gj hjgna\af_ dgf_%l]je fYf[aYd YkkaklYf[] lg af^jYkljm[lmj] projects: Recently, IIFCL, LIC and IDFC entered an MoU to avail of takeout of debt of up to 50% of the total project cost in the ratio of 20:20:10 by the three institutions, j]kh][lan]dq& L`ak e][`Yfake ak ]ph][l]\ lg `]dh af fYf[af_ l`]e lg l`] lmf] g^ INR300 billion.
50
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Conclusion
Driven by and dependent on the infrastructure growth story, the Indian EPC market has a plethora of opportunities to offer - an estimated spend of INR17.1 billion. over the Twelfth Five Year Plan 50% of such opportunities are expected to be funded by the private sector. What will differentiate one player from the other is the soundness with which such opportunities are secured and managed. Challenges are inevitable in the current EPC market scenario, but the approach to management of such challenges will be the key to continued success. With global giants entering Indian markets, EPC contractors wanting to ride the wave of double-digit growth will have to constantly improvise and improve their modus operandi to maximize value for their shareholders. Oal` l`] n]jq ka_fa[Yfl _jgol` af l`] k`]]j kar] g^ hjgb][lk$ [gfljY[lk `Yn] lg Z] viewed with long- term commitments, giving due consideration to risks that can span the life cycle of a project. Resource constraints in manpower, material, machinery and funds are a distasteful reality in the sector. Competition has to be defeated, not through reduction in pricing or margins, but by constant technical innovation and strategic tie-ups to gain an edge over ones peers. In certain highly competitive sectors, consolidation is inevitable. It is also a good idea to absorb multiple roles in the value chain to control the overall process along with related revenues and margins, of course! Effective project management is increasingly being recognized as a large contributor lg l`] gn]jYdd km[[]kk g^ lae]dq \]dan]jq$ Zjaf_af_ oal` al ]^[a]f[a]k af [gkl& While Indian contractors have mastered the art of planning, the need for regular supervision and monitoring is gaining prominence among them, to ensure that onpaper sketches reach their logical conclusion with the desired results if not better ones. Global players have adopted this approach; domestic players are in the process of doing so. <an]jkalq af jgd]k oadd Zjaf_ af aee]\aYl] hjgb][l ]^[a]f[a]k$ Zml al ogmd\ Ydkg Z] prudent to diversify into other sub-sectors and regions. The EPC market is promising, but with the buoyancy in political policies, the areas of infrastructure development could shift focus over the years within infrastructure sub-sectors. Diversity in skill-sets, being able to adapt and secure contracts based on the requirements of infrastructure development may be a long-term mitigant of the vagaries of time. Indian players are foraying into the international arena on an opportunistic basis. Moreover, regional players are also realizing the importance of having a pan-India presence in this competitive environment. With the gargantuan size of projects on offer, the passion of domestic players lg Y[`a]n] `a_` _jgol` j]imaj]k ka_fa[Yfl [YhalYd afn]kle]fl& ;gehd]e]flaf_ this requirement is the deteriorating working capital requirements of companies. However, with rising interest costs and over- leveraged balance sheets, there is little scope for raising funds through this route. With FDI in infrastructure opening up, global funds have demonstrated their keenness to invest in the sector through ]klYZdak`]\ Yf\ kgmf\ hdYq]jk& Ka_fa[Yfl afn]kle]flk `Yn] Z]]f eY\] af k]n]jYd companies in the last few years. Some are also exploring the possibility of inorganic growth through the merger and acquisition route, in which complementing skill-sets are acquired to achieve quick growth. Lg kme mh$ _jgol` af =H; Af\aY ak ]na\]fl$ Zml \janaf_ _jgol` ]^[a]fldq ak l`] key to success.
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<aj][l lYp]k
Given the different ways (mentioned above) adopted by the players to execute EPC contracts in India, the taxability of the income steam is a relatively complex and fact-driven exercise. Some relevant direct tax implications for EPC contracts are elucidated below.
All the elements of the supply of equipment is concluded or undertaken outside India (title of goods, delivery, risk, etc.) The contract is on principal-to-principal basis.
While law and jurisprudence seem to be in favor of non-taxability of offshore supplies, the issue is far from settled, as is evident from the fact that several companies are still engaged in litigation with tax authorities. In view of the uncertainty of tax costs, more and more foreign companies are now approaching the Authority for Advance Ruling to seek certainty on tax costs on offshore supplies and avoid prolonged tax battles.
The taxation of consortiums has in the recent past attracted the attention of the Indian Revenue Authorities (IRA). The IRA takes a cue from such acts of project owners, and more often than not seeks to tax a consortium as an Association of Persons (AOP) and disregards the independent tax status of the members of the consortium as taxable ]flala]k& L`] akkm] e]jalk ka_fa[Yf[] kaf[] Yf 9GH ak [gfka\]j]\ lg Z] Y lYp j]ka\]fl of India, unless its control and management is situated wholly outside India. If the consortium is taxed as an AOP in India, its worldwide income may become taxable in the country. As a result, the income of a member of the consortium, which might otherwise have not been subjected to tax in India (in the hands of the members as independent taxable entities), it is likely to be taxed in the country if the consortium is treated as an AOP, e.g., income arising from offshore supply of goods by a foreign contractor. Stability and consistency in the tax policies of the Government are much needed at this stage to sustain the growth of the infrastructure sector in India.
Oal``gd\af_ lYp]k
Under Indian direct tax laws, a project owner is required to withhold taxes on payments made to EPC contractors. This includes those made for offshore as well as onshore work. However, the rate at which the taxes require to be withheld depends on the fact pattern of each case.
Offshore services
The DTC enumerates unambiguously that offshore services will be taxed in India, irrespective of where the services are rendered. Therefore, the controversy surrounding the taxability of offshore services seems to be put to rest. While this may add to the tax cost of foreign companies, and ultimately to that of projects, the certainty of tax costs will make it easier for foreign companies to take a decision on pursuing Indian contracts.
56
Oal``gd\af_ lYp]k
Under the Act, the taxes from such payments (for provision of drawings, designs rendering of technical services, etc.) to foreign companies are to be withheld as per the rates prescribed under the Act or the relevant tax treaty, whichever was more Z]f][aYd lg l`] hYq]] gj lYp hYq]j& Lqha[Yddq$ lYp lj]Yla]k hjgna\] Y lYp jYl] g^ 10%-15% for royalty or fees for technical services, while the Act prescribed a rate of 10% (plus surcharge and cess) in the absence of a PE. However, under the proposed DTC, withholding tax rates on aforesaid payments have increased to 20%. While the Yhhda[YZadalq g^ l`] Z]f][aYd hjgnakagfk g^ l`] 9[l nak%%nak l`] lj]Ylq ak kladd af ^gj[]$ l`] rate increase in the DTC could adversely affect the overall tax liability for the offshore services.
Af\aj][l lYp
The EPC Industry is at present subjected to multiple indirect taxes, both at the Central and state levels. The overall impact of such levies is substantial, and therefore, it is crucial for companies executing EPC contracts to structure their contracts, while considering various tax implications arising under Indian domestic tax laws. A gist of the relevant indirect tax levies applicable to the EPC industry are tabulated below. Key indirect taxes applicable to the EPC Industry in India
Tax/Duty Customs duty Excise duty Service tax Central Sales Tax (CST) Value Added Tax (VAT) Entry tax/ Octroi Governing authority Central Government Central Government Central Government Central Government Nature of levy Duty on import of goods into India (general effective rate 26.85%) Duty on manufacture of goods in India (general effective rate 10.30%) LYp gf hjgnakagf g^ kh][a]\ k]jna[]k _]f]jYd effective rate 10.30%) Tax on sale of goods between two states at [gf[]kkagfYd jYl] g^ * kmZb][l lg kh][a]\ conditions) LYp gf kYd] g^ _gg\k af Af\aY jYl]k kh][a[ lg k]dd]jk state and commodity) typically the VAT rate varies from 5% to 15%. Levy on entry of goods into a particular state or local area (Entry tax rate varies from State to State.)
State government
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Typical indirect tax implications in respect of the various components of the EPC contract are outlined below:
Offshore service
Provision of offshore services may attract levy of Service tax in India under a reverse charge mechanism as import of services. In the case of import of services, the liability to pay service tax is of the recipient of the service. Availability of credit for erection, commissioning or construction services needs to be evaluated in detail since this may be restricted, depending on the nature of the output activity orservices undertaken by a EPC contractor.
Onshore services
Hjgnakagf g^ kh][a]\ k]jna[]k oal`af Af\aY ak ]da_aZd] lg d]nq g^ K]jna[] lYp& L`] possibility of claiming Cenvat credit for Service tax paid may be explored to mitigate the overall reduction in the Indirect tax cost of a project.
<a^[mdlq af kmZklYflaYlaf_ l`] [gfka\]jYlagf j][]an]\ gf Y[[gmfl g^ hmj] kmhhdq g^ goods and services, which may result in a dispute with respect to the value on which Service tax or Sales tax is paid by an EPC contractor. Furthermore, authorities can levy tax on the value of goods being provided by the project owner to an EPC contractor for use in the execution of the contract. Service tax or Sales tax may also be levied on the value of services or goods provided free of cost.
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Accordingly, while evaluating indirect tax implications on onshore civil works contract, it is imperative to identify the appropriate nature of a contract, i.e., whether it is a spilt or consolidated contract. Assuming that a onshore civil works contract is a spilt contract, the following typical indirect tax implications are highlighted: Service tax is levied on consideration received for pure service portion of a contract. An EPC contractor may explore the option of paying Service tax at the rate of 4.12% under the composition scheme prescribed under Indias Service tax legislation. VAT/CST will be levied on consideration received for supply of goods. An EPC contractor may explore the ghlagf g^ hYqaf_ N9L mf\]j l`] [gehgkalagf k[`]e] hj]k[jaZ]\ mf\]j klYl]%kh][a[ N9L legislations. Therefore, it appears that while making decisions on structuring of an EPC project or contract, companies need to take into account Indirect tax implications and address appropriately Indirect tax issues that may arise in the future.
;gf[dmkagf
The moot point for the Government to consider as regards EPC contracts is that uncertainty of taxation and prolonged litigation is likely to increase the implementation cost of infrastructure projects. This could work as a deterrent for foreign EPC contractors wanting to enter Indias infrastructure space. This may deprive the [gmfljq g^ Y\nYf[]\ Yf\ ]^[a]fl f]o l][`fgdg_a]k$ o`a[` Yj] j]imaj]\ lg \]n]dgh alk infrastructure at an accelerated pace. The Indian Government is therefore encouraged to maintain consistency in its tax policies for taxation for EPC contracts.
Given the current regime of complex tax structure and involved litigation due to ambiguities, sooner aehd]e]flYlagf g^ ?KL ogmd\ k]l%mh Y d]n]d hdYqaf_ ]d\ Establishment of fast track dispute resolution or advance rulings for all players would enhance [gf\]f[] Yf\ []jlYaflq gf lYpYlagf
Samir Kanabar, Tax Director and Sub-sector Leader - Ports & Shipping, Ernst & Young India
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Additionally, the market has over 100 unlisted promoter-driven companies that are active participants in the EPC space.
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Notes
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Notes
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Sushi V Shyamal Partner, Transaction Advisory Services Transportation Infrastructure and Construction Sector Leader
Samir Kanabar Tax Director Sub- Sector Leader Ports and Shipping
Authors
Sushi V Shyamal Partner, Transaction Advisory Services Transportation Infrastructure and Construction Sector Leader
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