HONG KONG: CK Hutchison is exploring the inclusion of a major Chinese investor in the proposed US$22.8 billion sale of its global ports business, following regulatory scrutiny from Beijing that has complicated progress on the deal.

The move comes after the Hong Kong-based conglomerate concluded exclusive talks with a consortium led by U.S. investment giant BlackRock and Italy's MSC, the shipping group controlled by billionaire Gianluigi Aponte.

The initial agreement, reached in March, covered 43 port assets across 23 countries, including two key terminals located along the Panama Canal, a region of strategic interest to both China and the United States.

With the exclusivity window closed, CK Hutchison said changes in both the consortium's structure and the transaction itself are now likely to be required to secure the necessary regulatory approvals. The company emphasized it would not proceed without clearance from all relevant authorities and said it is open to taking additional time to ensure compliance.

In a filing to the Hong Kong Stock Exchange on July 28, the company confirmed it is in discussions with the existing consortium to bring in a "major strategic" Chinese investor. A source familiar with the matter told Reuters that China COSCO Shipping Corp, one of the country's largest port operators, is in talks to join the group.

While BlackRock declined to comment, neither MSC nor COSCO responded to requests for comment. CK Hutchison also refused to provide further details beyond its official exchange filing.

The development comes amid increased geopolitical friction, particularly following remarks by U.S. President Donald Trump, who previously called for U.S. control of the Panama Canal and praised the port sale as a symbolic "reclaiming" of the region. His administration had also raised concerns over Chinese control of port assets near the canal.

China's State Administration for Market Regulation has announced it will review the deal under antitrust laws to ensure market fairness and protect the public interest. While the regulator did not provide additional comments, state-run Chinese media criticized the proposed transaction, warning that it undermines national interests.

In its latest statement, CK Hutchison said that any new investor joining the consortium must be a significant participant in the group.

Analysts remain cautious about how the situation will evolve. David Blennerhassett, strategist at Ballingal Investment Advisors, noted that the majority Chinese control of the consortium would likely face resistance. However, a minority stake may ease geopolitical tensions while maintaining deal viability.

JPMorgan analysts echoed that view, stating in a client note that adding COSCO could address some of Beijing's concerns and improve the chances of approval. They also flagged that some port assets—especially those in Panama—may be excluded from the final agreement, which could affect both the structure and pricing of the revised deal.

CK Hutchison's shares rose 1.6 percent on July 28, outperforming the broader Hang Seng Index, which gained 0.9 percent.