Li Ka-shing Ports Sale Slows on Regulatory Hurdles, Cosco’s Role

Hong Kong tycoon Li Ka-shing’s attempt to sell CK Hutchison Holdings Ltd. ports in the Panama Canal and other locations around the world has slowed as negotiators try to untangle a web of issues hampering an agreement, including the role played by China’s biggest shipping company.

While talks are ongoing, the timing of any potential deal is unknown because of uncertainties such as the structure of the buying consortium, people familiar with the matter said. Unresolved matters include what kind of role China Cosco Shipping Corp. will play and how to win approval from various national regulators since the ports for sale span the globe, the people said, asking not to be identified discussing private information.