CK Hutchison Sells Ports Business to BlackRock Amid Trade Tensions

Hong Kong-based CK Hutchison agreed to sell a significant portion of its $22.8 billion global ports business to a BlackRock-led group. The deal includes assets near the Panama Canal, raising geopolitical concerns amid U.S.-China trade tensions. Founded by Li Ka-shing, CK Hutchison operates in over 50 countries with interests in ports, telecommunications, retail, and infrastructure. The ports business spans 24 countries, with stakes in 53 ports and 295 berths. The BlackRock-led consortium will gain control of 43 ports in 23 countries, while CK Hutchison retains stakes in major container ports.