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China Criticizes CK Hutchison's $23 Billion Panama Ports Sale to BlackRock Consortium

The deal, which is expected to be finalized by April 2, has drawn Beijing's scrutiny over national security and loyalty concerns.

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The entrance of the Balboa Port is pictured after Hong Kong's CK Hutchison Holdings Ltd 0001.HK agreed to sell its interests in a key Panama Canal port operator to a BlackRock Inc-backed consortium, amid pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump to curb China's influence in the region, in Panama City, Panama, March 4, 2025. REUTERS/Enea Lebrun/File Photo
A U.S. Coast Guard ship docks in a naval base along the Panama Canal in Panama City, Thursday, March 13, 2025. (AP Photo/Matias Delacroix)
CK Hutchison announced an expansive deal that would sell 43 ports in 23 countries and keep facilities in mainland China and Hong Kong.

Overview

  • CK Hutchison announced the sale of its Panama Canal port assets and 43 other ports in 23 countries to a BlackRock-led consortium for $23 billion.
  • Beijing has expressed anger over the deal, citing a lack of prior consultation and accusing CK Hutchison of undermining Chinese national interests.
  • Chinese authorities, including the State Administration for Market Regulation, are investigating the transaction for potential antitrust and national security risks.
  • Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee acknowledged societal concerns about the sale and emphasized the need for compliance with local laws.
  • The Panama Canal's strategic importance, handling 5% of global maritime trade, has made the deal a focal point in U.S.-China geopolitical tensions.