China warns Australia on protectionist move after blocked grid deal

Beijing

AUSTRALIA'S decision to block the A$10 billion (S$10.3 billion) sale of the country's biggest energy grid to Chinese bidders was a protectionist move that would negatively affect investment in the country, China's Ministry of Commerce said on Wednesday.

Australian Treasurer Scott Morrison said last week that preferred bidders State Grid Corp of China and Hong Kong's Cheung Kong Infrastructure Holdings would be prevented from buying electricity network company Ausgrid, citing unspecified national security concerns.