CK Hutchison has announced plans to sell 80% of its stake in 43 ports across 23 countries. This includes the UK’s Felixstowe, Harwich, and Thamesport.
These assets will be acquired by a consortium comprising MSC’s Terminal Investment Limited (TiL) and the US investment firm BlackRock. Hutchison Ports will retain 20% of its holdings, including 17 port units in Hong Kong and China.
Valued at £15 billion, this deal would significantly strengthen MSC’s presence in one of the UK’s busiest ports, enhancing its capacity and influence in global shipping and logistics.
For freight forwarders, the potential sale points to operational improvements at Felixstowe. Discussions around the deal highlight the urgent need for better road and rail infrastructure to accommodate future growth and maintain smooth port operations. The deal is expected to be signed by 2nd April 2025.