Beijing Intensifies Pressure on CK Hutchison as Panama Ports Deal Nears Deadline

China issues a fourth warning over the $23 billion sale to BlackRock-led consortium, accusing the Hong Kong firm of undervaluing strategic assets.

CK Hutchison’s $23 billion sale of overseas port operations, including two Panama Canal ports, faces mounting opposition from Beijing ahead of the April 2 deadline.
Chinese authorities have issued a fourth warning, accusing the company of undervaluing assets and prioritizing profit over national interests.
The Hong Kong government and CK Hutchison are in talks to explore alternatives, but options are limited due to political and financial risks.
Beijing has reportedly instructed state-owned enterprises to halt new partnerships with Li Ka-shing’s businesses following the controversial deal.
U.S. President Donald Trump has praised the transaction as a strategic win, emphasizing reduced Chinese influence over critical global infrastructure.