Beijing limits criticism of Hutchison's Panama sale

Beijing is expressing its discontent with CK Hutchison Holdings, a company owned by Hong Kong billionaire Li Ka-shing. The company has decided to sell 43 of its ports, including two in Panama, to a group led by the American investment firm BlackRock. While state media has not openly criticized this move, two top offices responsible for Hong Kong affairs have shared critical articles from a local pro-Beijing newspaper, Ta Kung Pao. The articles highlight Beijing’s worries about foreign pressure on Chinese businesses. The Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office and the Beijing liaison office shared their concerns by reposting these opinion pieces. However, they have since stopped further public comments. Meanwhile, Ta Kung Pao continues to publish strong critiques of the sale, suggesting Hutchison should resist American influence. Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu emphasized the importance of addressing public concerns and opposing foreign coercion in business. His remarks did not specifically mention Li Ka-shing or his family. Similarly, former chief executive Leung Chun-ying raised questions about the loyalty of merchants, without naming anyone directly. This situation reflects the complex relationship between Chinese businesses and foreign investments, particularly in light of tensions with the United States.