China Launches Review of CK Hutchison's Panama Ports Sale to U.S.-Led Consortium

Beijing's market regulator delays finalization of the $19 billion deal, citing antitrust concerns and national interests.

China's State Administration for Market Regulation confirmed it will review CK Hutchison's $19 billion sale of its global ports business, including Panama Canal operations, to a BlackRock-led U.S. consortium.
The deal, originally set to be signed on April 2, has been delayed due to regulatory scrutiny and political pressures from Beijing.
Chinese authorities have criticized the transaction as a betrayal of national interests, with two government offices overseeing Hong Kong affairs voicing strong opposition.
Hong Kong leader John Lee stated that concerns about the sale will be addressed in accordance with the law, while CK Hutchison has not publicly responded to the criticism.
The review underscores escalating U.S.-China tensions over control of strategic infrastructure, with the Panama Canal's critical role in global trade at the center of the dispute.