By Yip Ka-ho
Recent news of Cheung Kong Hutchison Holdings Limited planning to sell its 43 ports, including two major ports in the Panama Canal, to an American consortium has sparked widespread attention and strong skepticism among the Chinese people: Why easily transfer such crucial ports to ill-intentioned American forces? What political conspiracy is hidden behind the seemingly commercial actions? Have the so-called "shrewd" deals considered national interests? Is this choice aiding the oppressors and causing harm to China and the world?
Subsequently, people further raise soul-searching questions: In the face of major ethical decisions, how should entrepreneurs navigate and lead their companies?
History has long provided the answer: Great entrepreneurs are never cold-blooded opportunists solely seeking profits, but passionate and patriotic individuals! The business arena is akin to a battlefield. Those shining brightly in the annals of national history, like great generals, resolutely and bravely uphold national interests and the righteousness of the nation. They align their compass with the stars of the motherland, breathing the same air and sharing the same fate with their people, hence earning historical reverence and admiration for generations to come.
People recall that in old China, facing poverty and weakness with formidable enemies looming, Zhang Jian founded the Dasheng Cotton Mill to save the country through industry. Amid the flames of the Anti-Japanese War, Ma Wanqi used his trade network to supply goods to the front lines and tirelessly sought ways to treat wounded soldiers.
People remember that in New China's early days, with numerous challenges and the West, led by the United States, imposing a harsher blockade, numerous entrepreneurs, like warriors on the battlefield, vigorously erected a new economic Great Wall for the nation's development, embodying the spirit of "serving the nation and the people" through action. Ke Lin and Ke Zhengping raised significant funds and resources for the country in Hong Kong and Macao. Henry Fok Ying-tung faced the British authorities' so-called "suppress smuggling" and organized fleets to break through the blockade, transporting strategic supplies such as medicine and steel to the Mainland.
People remember that after the reform and opening up, Chao Kuang-piu promptly invested in and established the Xiangzhou Cotton Mill in the mainland. Despite external scrutiny and family doubts, he staunchly declared, "It must be done, even if all investments are lost; it is worthwhile because it is beneficial to the country's development." Pao Yue-kong signed agreements with mainland shipbuilding companies, customizing multiple ships and propelling China's shipbuilding industry onto the world stage. He told his children, "No matter when, no matter where, never forget that we are Chinese!" Chao and Pao achieved extraordinary commercial feats rooted in unwavering beliefs of "Do whatever it takes to serve the country even at the cost of their own life, regardless of fortune or misfortune," merging personal aspirations with the rise and fall of the world.
Today, China's new generation of outstanding entrepreneurs further inherit and magnify the spirit of patriotism. Confronting the United States' technological blockades, market sieges, and even targeted attacks on individuals, they remain resilient and counterattack fiercely, breaking through encirclement and surpassing under pressure, resolutely and powerfully defending the nation's industrial autonomy and dignity. Ren Zhengfei leads Huawei in weathering the impact of global supply chain disruptions, initiating the "Nanniwan Plan" in the face of severed high-end chip supplies, exemplifying what it means to "stand and fight," safeguarding China's technological sovereignty in the communications industry, and declaring to the world that Chinese enterprises will not kneel before the powerful. Many entrepreneurs also see being on the so-called U.S. sanctions list as a way to get on the "honor roll", transforming external pressures into opportunities for independent innovation and breakthrough development strategies. BYD, Contemporary Amperex Technology, Iflytek, and DJI—each story of hard-fought victory showcases the path to success and greatness for these enterprises.
"True heroes arise in times of hardship." Both history and reality remind entrepreneurs standing at the forefront that in the face of U.S. hegemony and bullying, only by firmly standing with the nation, bravely fighting, can they protect homes and country, win dignity, and preserve their honor. Conversely, if they fail to see the true nature of those American politicians who "want both money and lives," choosing them and going against the tide, they may achieve temporary gains and profits, but ultimately, they will have no future and bear the weight of historical infamy.
(Source: Ta Kung Pao)
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