Sale of Panama Canal Ports to US-Led Group Faces Intensified Scrutiny from China

Beijing raises security and antitrust concerns over the $22.8 billion deal, as US-China tensions escalate with new tariffs and geopolitical rivalry.

CK Hutchison Holdings has sold its stakes in Panama Canal ports and 43 other global ports to a BlackRock-led consortium for $22.8 billion, pending final approval.
China has criticized the sale, citing national security and antitrust concerns, and is conducting investigations into the transaction's implications.
The US sees the acquisition as a strategic victory, reinforcing its influence over critical global infrastructure in a region historically within its sphere of influence.
The deal coincides with escalating US-China trade tensions, including new tariffs imposed by both nations, further straining economic and diplomatic relations.
The sale reflects broader shifts in the port industry, with trends like vertical integration challenging traditional port operators like CK Hutchison.