Sou Hu Cai Jing·2025-07-19 03:47Core Viewpoint - The situation regarding Li Ka-shing's sale of ports has seen a significant development, with BlackRock inviting China COSCO Shipping Group to participate in the acquisition of 43 ports, indicating a shift in dynamics [2][19]. Group 1: Transaction Background - Li Ka-shing's plan to sell 43 ports to BlackRock has faced considerable backlash, with accusations of selling strategic assets to foreign entities [7][8]. - The Hong Kong government, including current and former leaders, has expressed strong concerns about the transaction, emphasizing that any deal must comply with legal regulations [9][10]. - Li Ka-shing's son, Li Zeju, stated that proceeds from the sale would be reinvested in Hong Kong and mainland China, which was met with skepticism by the media [11][12]. Group 2: Government and Market Response - The Chinese government has indicated its intention to protect fair competition, confirming the involvement of state-owned enterprises in the transaction [4][5]. - The National Market Supervision Administration has announced that it will conduct a legal review of the sale, further complicating the deal for Li Ka-shing [10]. Group 3: Strategic Implications - The ports in question control 21% of China's shipping volume and are critical to national shipping security, making the sale a matter of national interest amid ongoing U.S.-China trade tensions [25]. - The potential sale has been characterized as a strategic move that aligns with U.S. efforts to decouple supply chains from China, raising concerns about the implications for national interests [25]. Group 4: Future Outlook - The involvement of COSCO in the acquisition process suggests a potential shift in the balance of power regarding the transaction, as the Chinese company holds significant leverage [20][21]. - The future of Li Ka-shing's assets remains uncertain, with indications that the era of his dominance in Hong Kong may be coming to an end [26].