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

Beijing rebukes the Hong Kong conglomerate for prioritizing profits over national interests in a deal transferring key assets to U.S. control.

CK Hutchison agreed to sell its global ports business, including two Panama Canal ports, to a BlackRock-led consortium for $23 billion, sparking criticism from Beijing.
Chinese state-backed media labeled the deal a betrayal of national interests, accusing the company of disregarding China's strategic goals and siding with the U.S.
The sale has been framed by analysts as a strategic move by CK Hutchison to reduce geopolitical risks, but it has faced backlash for its perceived political implications.
The deal has not yet been finalized, and observers speculate that pressure from Beijing could complicate or potentially derail the transaction.
CK Hutchison shares dropped over 6% following the publication of critical commentary by pro-Beijing outlets, underscoring investor concerns about the deal's viability.