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Case
| HBS Case Collection
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2007
(Revised from original 2006 version)
The Dubai Ports World Debacle and its Aftermath
by
Julio J. Rotemberg
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Abstract
Describes the political ramifications in the United States of Dubai-based DP World's acquisition of London-based Peninsular and Oriental Steam Navigation Company (P&O). Because P&O operated some port terminals in the United States, DP World obtained clearance from the Committee on Foreign Investments in the United States before P&O shareholders approved the deal in February 2006. Nonetheless, a ruckus over port security erupted both in Congress and in the press and this ruckus led DP World to promise that it would relinquish the U.S. terminals of P&O. Also contains a brief description of Dubai and its relationship to the U.S., a discussion of issues related to port security, and a brief history of U.S. security concerns with foreign direct investment. Ends with a depiction of the Bills passed unanimously by the U.S. House and Senate to further regulate foreign investment in the wake of the DP World debacle.
Keywords: Foreign Direct Investment;
Multinational Firms and Management;
Governing Rules, Regulations, and Reforms;
Government Legislation;
National Security;
Business and Government Relations;
Ship Transportation;
Dubai;
United States;