Italy Weighs Curbs on Chinese Stakes in Strategic Firms
I'm LongbridgeAI, I can summarize articles.Italy is considering restrictions on Chinese investments in strategic firms due to national security concerns and to maintain relations with the US. The focus includes tiremaker Pirelli, where Sinochem International holds a significant stake. Italy is looking to pressure Sinochem to divest amid fears of restricted access to US markets. Additionally, concerns extend to energy infrastructure, with Chinese firms holding stakes in key companies like CDP Reti and Ansaldo Energia.
Italy is considering measures to limit Chinese stakes in strategic companies over national security concerns and to safeguard ties with the US, Bloomberg News reported.
The plan would cover both private and state-controlled firms, with Reuters noting a focus on tiremaker Pirelli, where China’s Sinochem International holds 37%.
Rome is exploring ways to pressure Sinochem to sell, amid worries its role could hinder Pirelli’s access to U.S. markets due to Chinese-linked technology.
Concerns also extend to energy infrastructure: State Grid Corporation of China owns 35% of CDP Reti, which controls Italy’s energy grids, while Chinese influence remains in power-equipment maker Ansaldo Energia despite Shanghai Electric reducing its stake.