Expect significant new tariffs on Chinese imports and moderate levies on goods from other nations , as President-elect Donald Trump rolls out his protectionist agenda. However, with his preference for chaotic policymaking and sudden shifts , there’s uncertainty on how soon these import taxes will actually hit. Dubbed “ Tariff Man ,” Trump aims to use tariffs both strategically and tactically . He’s mentioned taxing all Chinese goods up to 60% and potentially setting 10%-20% tariffs on imports globally , but details on these plans remain vague . Key players within Trump’s team are divided: Robert Lighthizer , a staunch tariff advocate, sees permanent duties as crucial to balance US trade , while others, like billionaires John Paulson and Scott Bessent , view tariffs as temporary leverage. Trump’s previous administration had mixed feelings, especially on national security-related trade limits , which he sometimes dismissed, favoring an “open for business” approach. High-profile busin
Alibaba Group Holding Ltd.’s majority stake in Sun Art Retail Group Ltd, a leading Chinese hypermarket chain, is drawing interest from private equity (PE) firms, according to sources familiar with the matter. Potential buyers, including DCP Capital and Hillhouse Investment, are reportedly considering purchasing part or all of Alibaba’s 79% stake in Sun Art.
The shares of Sun Art have surged by 28% this year, giving the company a market value of approximately US$2.2 billion. The stock was temporarily suspended from trading in Hong Kong on Friday, pending an announcement related to the takeovers and mergers code. In addition to DCP and Hillhouse, Alibaba’s stake may also attract interest from other international buyout funds.
These discussions are still in the preliminary stages, and it is not guaranteed that a deal will materialize. While DCP and Sun Art declined to comment, spokespeople for Alibaba and Hillhouse have yet to respond to inquiries.
Alibaba acquired its controlling stake in Sun Art in 2020 for US$3.6 billion. Sun Art operates hundreds of hypermarkets across China under brands like RT-Mart and supports Alibaba’s expansion in fresh produce through its distribution and storage networks. However, Alibaba, under the leadership of CEO Eddie Wu, has been refocusing on its core business in e-commerce and cloud services, with reports earlier this year suggesting the company is also considering selling its InTime department store arm.
Recent market conditions, buoyed by China's economic recovery, have led several top shareholders in Chinese companies to cash out of their holdings, further boosting interest in deals like this. Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Index has climbed 21% this year, reflecting the improving market outlook.
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