China threatens to block a $23B port sale to U.S. firms unless a Chinese company gets a stake.

China threatens to block the sale of over 40 ports owned by CK Hutchison to BlackRock and MSC unless the Chinese company Cosco is given a stake. This move, reported by the Wall Street Journal, could complicate the $23 billion deal. The U.S. government is concerned, especially regarding Chinese influence near the Panama Canal. The deadline for exclusive talks between the buyers and Hutchison is July 27.