Experts expects higher efficiency as Chinese investors join Panama Canal ports deal
發佈日期: 2025-07-28 20:44
TVB News
Hong Kong-based conglomerate CK Hutchison said it was eyeing mainland investors for the Panama Canal ports deal.
The initial plan was to sell port assets to a consortium that includes U.S. investment firm BlackRock, a move backed by U.S. President Donald Trump, who alleged that China interferes with the canal's operations in Panama.
After months of uncertainty, Hutchison said the exclusive negotiations period with the consortium has expired.
Some representatives from the logistics industry said port efficiency could be enhanced by engaging Chinese firms.
The high-profile deal sparked controversies as CK Hutchison plans to sell 43 ports all over the world, including two in the Panama Canal, to a consortium led by U.S. investment firm BlackRock and an Italian billionaire's family-run shipping company MSC.
The Panama Canal is crucial for global trade as it provides a shortcut between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.
The proposed deal has sparked geopolitical tensions.
Now, CK Hutchison said it was planning to include a Chinese investor to the deal.
Lau Siu-kai, a consultant to the Chinese Association of Hong Kong and Macao Studies, said he was not surprised by the move.
He said whether port sale deal will succeed will depend on Washington's response to it.
Lawmaker and executive councillor Jeffrey Lam said any major deal must be in accordance with the law and take national security into consideration.
He added that under "One Country, Two Systems," a high-profile transaction should not pose threat to national sovereignty, safety and development interests.
Meanwhile, logistics expert Willy Lin, chairman of Hong Kong Shipper's Council, believes the engagement of Chinese enterprises could boost confidence of the shipping sector.
