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宗馥莉掌控离岸公司,遗产争夺或早有布局
21世纪经济报道·2025-07-22 07:45

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the ongoing inheritance dispute involving the estate of Zong Qinghou, founder of Wahaha Group, focusing on the legal complexities surrounding the trust and the control of assets, particularly the HSBC accounts linked to Jian Hao Ventures Limited, which is controlled by Zong's daughter, Zong Fuli [1][4][6]. Group 1: Trust Structure and Legal Implications - The offshore trust structure typically serves as the top layer in cross-border inheritance frameworks, with the trust holding companies in BVI and potentially other jurisdictions [3]. - Zong Fuli's Jian Hao Ventures Limited is speculated to be a lower-tier company in this structure, with her serving as a director or controlling figure [3][6]. - The effectiveness of the trust established by Zong Qinghou is under scrutiny, particularly regarding its legal standing in the face of conflicting wills [6][17]. Group 2: Legal Proceedings and Court Decisions - The inheritance dispute is being litigated in both Hong Kong and Hangzhou, with the Hong Kong case focusing on the validity of a $2.1 billion family trust and the Hangzhou case addressing the inheritance of a 29.4% stake in Wahaha Group [9][12]. - The Hong Kong High Court has indicated it will delay its ruling until the Hangzhou court resolves key factual issues, including the familial relationship of the plaintiffs to Zong Qinghou [12][14]. - The Hong Kong court's decision is expected to be announced on August 1, 2025, with a brief hearing anticipated [11][19]. Group 3: Will Validity and Inheritance Rights - The validity of Zong Qinghou's 2020 will, which states that "overseas assets are inherited by the only daughter," is contested due to potential conflicts of interest among the witnesses [17][18]. - If there are other heirs, such as underage children, the will may be partially invalidated as it must reserve a necessary share for them according to civil law [18][19]. - The legal requirements for the will's validity, including witness conditions, are discussed, highlighting the complexities of inheritance law in both Hong Kong and mainland China [17][18].