The $6.3bn planned takeover of Hong Kong’s Orient Overseas Container Line (OOCL) by Cosco Shipping is another potent symbol of China's power.
The deal would propel the Beijing-based behemoth up the world container shipping rankings to number three behind Mediterranean Shipping Co.
There is already speculation that Cosco has its eye on the 24% share holding in fourth-placed CMA CGM that is up for sale.
