How I Made It

A scam set WA’s fertiliser king on a path to a $5b fortune

Nov 9, 2025
Vikas Rambal, a chemical engineer and founder of the Perdaman Group, shares his incredible journey from a seemingly doomed business trip to establishing a thriving fertiliser empire in Australia. He recounts how a scam set him on a path to discover ammonia opportunities and led to pivotal meetings that launched significant projects. Vikas discusses diversifying into new sectors like pharma and renewable energy, and his commitment to reducing emissions while engaging with Indigenous communities. He attributes his success to a blend of luck, timing, and relentless hard work.
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ANECDOTE

Park Bench Meeting Changed Everything

  • Vikas Rambal discovered a solar opportunity in Perth was a scam within an hour and sat on a park bench afterwards.
  • A chance conversation there led to introductions to WA officials and his first visit to Karratha, changing his career path.
ANECDOTE

Built The First Big Ammonia Project

  • Rambal moved his young family to Australia to build the first ammonia plant after convincing his employer it was viable.
  • He led community engagement and pridefully cites Indian engineers and manufacturers who built that world's-largest plant.
ANECDOTE

Wife's Resolve Launched The Group

  • After a bitter separation with partners and court disputes, Rambal considered leaving Australia with his family.
  • His wife urged him to stay and continue, and that night Perdaman Group was born.
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