In partnership with Mergermarket, a service of ION Analytics

APAC dealmaking opens 2026 on divergent paths

APAC M&A activity entered 2026 with momentum fragmenting across the region. While deal volumes have moderated, capital continues to concentrate around markets and sectors aligned to long-term structural priorities rather than broad-based growth.
 
India remains the region’s standout growth engine as supply-chain diversification translates into sustained inbound investment. Southeast Asia is attracting capital into digital infrastructure as investors seek scale and regulatory neutrality, while Australia and New Zealand continue to benefit from energy-transition and critical-minerals demand.
 
At the same time, Greater China’s policy-led reset and Japan’s value-driven opportunity set are reshaping regional deal flows. Together, these forces point to a more selective—but strategically focused—APAC M&A landscape at the start of 2026.

What’s Inside?