Washington ‘unsurprised’ by Beijing’s anger at Hutchison’s Panama ports deal

“We are aware of the comments made by China. It’s also no surprise that the [Communist Party of China] is upset at this acquisition, which will reduce their control over the Panama Canal area,” department spokeswoman Tammy Bruce told a media briefing on Friday.

The sale of Hutchison’s two ports at each end of the Panama Canal is part of a US$23 billion deal to sell 43 ports spread over 23 countries to the BlackRock-led consortium, with the Hong Kong company originally expected to pocket US$19 billion.

China’s State Administration for Market Regulation said on Friday that it was looking into the deal, after Hong Kong-based, pro-Beijing media Wen Wei Po and Ta Kung Pao questioned whether the deal required approval via an antitrust review.

A spokesman from the market regulator said it would review the deal in accordance with the law to ensure fair competition in the market and to safeguard the public’s interest.