CK Hutchison's planned sale of its Panama port assets for nearly a month has faced intense public scrutiny, yet the company has failed to respond responsibly. Instead of addressing concerns transparently, the firm appears to have resorted to public relations warfare, using foreign media, online influencers, and local media platforms to shape public perception rather than halting the transaction.
The PR strategy has been tightly orchestrated, from media leaks to coordinated online narratives. However, such tactics only reinforce suspicions that there is something to hide.
Media and Online Manipulation: A Coordinated Strategy?
On March 26, multiple media outlets cited a Bloomberg report claiming that CK Hutchison's port sale would proceed "as planned" and be finalized by April 2. This so-called exclusive scoop was quickly amplified by online media, demonstrating a well-coordinated PR effort involving foreign media, online influencers, and corporate insiders.
Western media outlets have played a key role in shaping the narrative from the beginning:
In February, foreign media suggested that CK Hutchison was being "forced to sell" its Panama port operations, portraying the company as a victim of geopolitical pressure.
Soon after the sale was announced, the Financial Times reported that the buyer was not American but an Italian businessman with long-standing ties to the Li family—an apparent attempt to distance the deal from U.S. interests.
Now, Bloomberg has "exclusively" revealed the signing date, reinforcing the perception of an inevitable transaction.
These "leaks" raise questions: Who provides this information, and why?
Online media platforms and influencers have further distorted public perception. The South China Morning Post recently exposed that a Hong Kong real estate agent had been approached by CK Hutchison insiders and instructed to write opinion pieces defending the sale. This suggests a broader campaign to shape public discourse.
On social media, various narratives have emerged, including:
- "The buyer is Italian, not American."
- "Beijing does not oppose the deal."
- "It's just a business transaction—stop politicizing it."
These claims, often repeated by anonymous online accounts, aim to mislead the public and justify the sale.
Beyond media reports, pro-sale narratives have spread across financial and business platforms. Some so-called "industry experts" have praised the deal as a "smart business move." At the same time, certain Key Opinion Leaders (KOLs) on social media have gone as far as to frame CK Hutchison as a victim of political persecution.
More concerning, newly registered accounts on mainland Chinese social media platforms have begun pushing messages like "Don't interfere with normal business transactions." This coordinated effort to manipulate public opinion suggests an orchestrated influence campaign.
A Question of National Responsibility
Despite public outcry, CK Hutchison has not directly addressed concerns. Instead, its PR maneuvers suggest an attempt to silence critics rather than engage in honest dialogue.
This raises a crucial question: Should one of Hong Kong's most influential multinational corporations prioritize short-term profits over national and regional stability?
Many business analysts and geopolitical experts have questioned the sale's rushed nature and the asset's low valuation.
International business expert Bai Ming noted that CK Hutchison did not conduct a global bidding process to maximize profits, instead opting for a fast-track deal with BlackRock.
Comparing recent global port sales, analysts found that BlackRock secured the Panama ports at a valuation far lower than industry standards—suggesting a deal motivated by political pressure rather than financial logic.
Even Western media have acknowledged that BlackRock "got a bargain," with Reuters directly attributing the discounted price to geopolitical factors.
Taiwanese political commentator Lei Qian warned that the sale of the Panama ports is not just an economic issue—it has global security implications.
The Panama Canal has been a critical global trade chokepoint since the late 19th century.
If U.S. capital controls key port operations, Washington could impose new operational rules, increase fees, or even create logistical barriers for Chinese shipping.
This strategic dimension makes the sale far more than an ordinary business deal.
Facing U.S. Pressure: Should Hong Kong Businesses Succumb?
Amid U.S.-China tensions, Hong Kong businesses must decide whether to stand with national interests or yield to foreign pressure.
HK National People's Congress delegate Wilson Shum emphasized that businesses should consider national security alongside commercial interests.
Huawei and TikTok have successfully navigated U.S. pressure, finding alternative growth strategies with Beijing's support.
Other major Hong Kong businesses have aligned with national priorities and achieved greater success as a result.
In contrast, CK Hutchison appears to be capitulating to U.S. pressure, rather than exploring alternative solutions that align with national interests.
National security experts warn that businesses prioritizing short-term profit over national interest risk long-term reputational damage and reduced domestic support.
Legislative Council member Kwok Wai-keung pointed out that selling strategic infrastructure to foreign entities could jeopardize China's maritime interests and economic security.
With the April 2 signing deadline approaching, voices from business, political, and public sectors are urging CK Hutchison to reassess its decision.
Economic experts argue that CK Hutchison should reconsider the deal from a long-term strategic perspective rather than succumbing to immediate geopolitical pressure.
A Defining Moment for Hong Kong Business Leadership
The Panama Port sale is not just a corporate transaction but a test of Hong Kong's business leadership and integrity.
Will CK Hutchison continue to ignore public concerns and proceed with the sale? Or will it demonstrate corporate responsibility, reconsider the transaction, and align with broader national interests?
As the world watches, Hong Kong's corporate elite must decide where they stand.
(Source: Ta Kung Po)
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