Hong Kong Joins China’s Critique of Controversial Panama Canal Agreement

Political tensions are escalating over CK Hutchison’s $19 billion deal to sell Panama ports to BlackRock. Hong Kong leader John Lee emphasized the need for “serious attention” to the transaction amid concerns from Beijing. Following Lee’s comments, CK Hutchison shares fell nearly 3%, prompting the cancellation of investor briefings. Critics argue this arrangement might enable the U.S. to leverage these ports for political ends, making Chinese trade more vulnerable. Legal experts note that acquisitions like this usually don’t require extensive regulatory approval in Hong Kong, raising questions about the government’s authority to intervene. As geopolitical tensions rise, the deal’s implications are now seen as reflecting broader U.S.-China animosities, threatening Hong Kong’s business autonomy.