The planned US$22.8 billion sale of CK Hutchison’s global ports network is reportedly at risk after China’s state-owned COSCO demanded a controlling stake in the deal, sources say.
The transaction, first announced in March 2025, involves 43 major port assets across 23 countries. A consortium led by BlackRock and MSC’s Terminal Investment Limited had been set to acquire the network. COSCO’s insistence on majority control has raised concerns among other investors and regulators, particularly in the U.S. and Europe, who may block any structure that increases Chinese influence over strategic ports.
Analysts warn the dispute could either force a restructuring of the consortium or threaten the entire deal, highlighting the rising intersection of geopolitics and global trade infrastructure.
CK Hutchison has yet to comment on the latest developments, while observers note the outcome will have implications for global shipping routes and port ownership dynamics.