Bridging Continents: Inbound Investment from China to Australia

An investor group, comprised of Cheng Qingheng (8.7%), Reece O'Connell (0.7%) and Jeremy Baldock (0.7%), acquired a 10.3% stake in RooLife Group Ltd, a Subiaco-based software publisher for a total A$0.7 million, in a privately negotiated transaction.

Culture Amp, a leading employee experience platform, raised A$135.3 million in a Series F round, achieving a valuation of over US$1.5 billion. The funding, led by TDM Growth Partners and Sequoia Capital China, would  support its growth in improving employee engagement and performance management across over 4,000  organizations globally.

Tencent Holdings Ltd, through its subsidiary Supercell, acquired a majority stake in Ultimate Studio, a Melbourne-based game developer founded by former EA executives. This move built on Supercell's 2018 investment and aligned with its strategy to expand beyond mobile gaming into PC and console platforms, fostering a shared vision for creating impactful, memorable games. The terms of the deal were undisclosed.

LEGO Ventures A/S acquired Australia's Mod.io Pty Ltd for A$35.2 million. Mod.io, a platform for user-generated gaming content, would use the funding to enhance cross-platform support, help studios explore new UGC-driven business models, and expand into emerging markets, aligning with its mission to connect creators and game studios worldwide.

Silver Glory Group Limited entered into a stock purchase agreement to acquire a 73.1% stake in Tianci International, Inc. from Chuah Su Mei for A$1.2 million. Following the transaction, all existing directors and officers resigned, and Silver Glory appointed new leadership, including Zhigang Pei as CEO and CFO. The acquisition was funded using Silver Glory's working capital.

Pintec Technology Holdings Ltd. acquired InfraRisk Pty Ltd. for A$5.4 million, making it a wholly owned subsidiary. The acquisition strengthened Pintec's international expansion, leveraging InfraRisk's expertise in credit risk management to enhance its "SaaS Plus" model, develop innovative fintech solutions, and target markets in Australia and Europe.

IPV Capital LP of China acquired a 10.9% stake in Brisbane-based SportsHero Ltd for A$1 million, aiming to invest in innovative sports and gaming platforms to leverage technology for growth and user engagement.

Sequoia Capital China, along with Australian investors Reinventure, AirTree Ventures, and IAG Ventures, invested A$16 million in Hyper Anna Pty Ltd. The funding would fuel Hyper Anna's international expansion and enhance its AI-powered data analytics platform, which simplified data analysis for businesses through natural language interactions.

Val Morgan Outdoor (VMO), a subsidiary of Dalian Wanda Group, acquired Active Media Group from Fitness First Limited for A$20 million. The acquisition diversified VMO's portfolio into the health and fitness segment, adding over 4,000 digital screens in major cities and enhancing advertiser engagement. Active Media Group would merge into VMO's portfolio as VMO Active, aligning with plans to deliver 10,000 digital screens.

GCL System Integration Technology Co., Ltd. acquired a 51% stake in One Stop Warehouse Pty for A$9.7 million, marking its entry into the Australian market. The deal supported GCL's goals in PV integration, energy storage, and carbon reduction while enhancing global market expansion and bypassing trade barriers.

Wanda Cinema Line Co., Ltd. acquired The Hoyts Corporation Pty. Limited for A$468.2 million as part of its strategy to expand its global footprint in the entertainment industry. The acquisition allowed Wanda to enter the Australian market, leveraging Hoyts' established presence and extensive cinema network to strengthen its position as a leading global cinema operator.

Shanghai Sparkedge Private Equity Fund Management Co Ltd invested A$5.5 million for a stake in One Stop Warehouse to fuel its international growth and accelerate the launch of its AI-powered clean energy platform, GreenSketch. The investment underscores Sparkedge’s belief in OSW’s leadership in smart solar innovation.​

JD.com Inc acquired the Wacol Logistics Hub for A$240 million to enter the Australian market, expand its global logistics footprint, and capitalize on strong demand for industrial property in a prime location with growth potential.

Mitchells Equipment (Nanjing) Co.,Ltd acquired Allied Grain Systems Pty. Ltd in a privately negotiated transaction. AGS would continue to operate under its well-established brand from its existing locations and with its existing management team remaining in place.

Hangzhou GreatStar Industrial Co. Ltd. acquired Tesa Group Ltd from Hexagon AB for A$40 million, aligning with Hexagon's focus on smart digital realities. GreatStar aimed to expand its tool portfolio, enhance product offerings, and grow its presence in European markets, leveraging TESA PMI's expertise in precision measurement and its engineering capabilities.

Silk Road Logistics Holdings Ltd, a China-based red-chip company focused on coal processing and related products, acquired Fremantle Freight & Storage Group for A$31.4 million. This acquisition aligned with Silk Road's strategy to expand its WA footprint and enhance its capability to offer reliable port logistics solutions across Australia.

VNTR XXI Holdings Ltd, a unit of Hillhouse Investment Management V LP, acquired a 25.9% stake in One Stop Warehouse Pty Ltd for A$51 million. This strategic investment aimed to enhance VNTR's position in the renewable energy sector by leveraging One Stop Warehouse's expertise in solar and energy storage solutions within Australia's growing clean energy market.

China Education Group Holdings Limited reached an agreement to acquire the Australian Institute of Business and Management Pty Ltd from Viss Holdings Pty Ltd for A$128 million. This acquisition aligned with CEG's strategic plans for expansion in the education sector and marked its debut in Australia's education market.

Greentown Service Group Co. Ltd. acquired a 56% stake in Montessori Academy for A$67.2 million, aligning with its strategy to expand its early childhood education business. The acquisition was expected to complement GSF's existing services, boost domestic competitiveness, reduce teacher recruitment costs, and enhance its investment portfolio, while Montessori Academy benefits from GSF's rapid growth and profitability.

Dian An Zhu (Dian) of China raised its interest to 99.9%, from 70%, by acquiring a 29.9% stake in Maax Australia Pty Ltd (Maax), a Melbourne-based producer and designer of hand-crafted spas, in a privately negotiated transaction. Concurrently, Dian planned to raise its interest to 100%, from 99.9%, by acquiring a 0.001% stake in Maax.

Nanshan Group Co., Ltd. acquired a 19.9% stake in Virgin Australia Holdings Limited from Air New Zealand Limited for A$230 million as part of its strategy to expand its aviation portfolio. This acquisition aligned with Nanshan's goal of strengthening its presence in the aviation sector, complementing its ownership of Qingdao Airlines, and leveraging growth opportunities in the Australian aviation market.

Aotecar New Energy Technology Co Ltd acquired Air International Thermal Systems Limited from Unitas Capital Pte. Ltd. for A$199.7 million. This acquisition would allow Aotecar to integrate its automobile air conditioning business with the target, enhancing overall profitability.

CCCC International Holding Limited acquired John Holland Group Pty Ltd from Leighton Holdings Limited for A$1.1 billion. This acquisition supported CCCC's international development strategy by expanding its business scope, while Leighton benefited by strengthening its balance sheet, streamlining operations, and using the proceeds to drive future growth and competitiveness.

China Tourism Group Co Ltd has strategically invested in Argyle Hotel Management Group to expand its global presence. The partnership leverages Argyle’s strong brand in China and Southeast Asia, aligning with China Tourism Group’s goal to become a leading international hotel operator. Argyle’s Australian-style mid- and upscale brands complement the group’s portfolio and enable faster growth and operational synergies across Asia.​

Tianyu Wool Industry Zhangjiagang Free Trade Zone Co Ltd acquired Salena Estate Wines to diversify its business, enter the premium wine market, and expand its global footprint, especially in Australia. The deal supports cross-border growth and brand enhancement.​

An investor group, comprised of Beijing Hosen Investment Management Center LP, New Hope Holding Group Co Ltd, acquired an undisclosed minority stake in Real Pet Food Co Pty Ltd (RPFC) for a total of A$248 million in a privately negotiated transaction.

Cosmic Eagle Ltd acquired Shimao Aoya Holding Pty Ltd, an Australian livestock farming company, from Shimao Huanyu (Shanghai) Industrial Partnership LP for approximately A$103.8 million. The acquisition aimed to mitigate financial risks and streamline operations after Shimao Aoya faced prolonged losses due to challenges like drought and pandemic-related disruptions. 

China Mengniu Dairy, the Chinese state-owned dairy product manufacturer and distributor, acquired Australia-based food and beverage company Bellamy's Australia for A$1.3 billion. The acquisition would enable Mengniu to grow its presence in the organic infant formula market across Southeast Asia, Australia, and New Zealand, aligning with the group's strategic focus on infant formula and baby food markets in China and Southeast Asia.

By-health Co., Ltd. acquired Life-Space Group Pty Ltd from three Australian private investors for A$682.3 million. This acquisition aligned with By-health's strategy to penetrate the Australian probiotics market, boost profitability, enhance risk resilience, and strengthen its capacity for sustainable growth.

A consortium comprising Hosen Capital Ltd, New Hope Group Co., Ltd., Genbridge Capital, and Temasek Holdings (Private) Limited acquired a majority stake in Real Pet Food Company from Quadrant Private Equity Pty Limited and other minority shareholders for A$1 billion. Following the acquisition, New Hope took the lead in the partnership, while Quadrant has exited the venture.

Biostime International Holdings Limited acquired an 83% stake in Swisse Vitamins Pty Ltd from Fiske Pty Ltd for A$1.3 billion. This acquisition aligned with Biostime's strategy to grow its core business and strengthen its distribution network. It provided Biostime a chance to enter the adult supplements segment and diversify its offerings, while offering Swisse an expansion platform for future growth.

Humanwell Healthcare (Group) Co., Ltd. and CITIC Capital China Partners III, L.P. acquired Ansell Limited’s Sexual Wellness business for A$802 million. The sale enabled Ansell to sharpen its focus on its core medical and industrial segments for improved profitability. For Humanwell Healthcare, the deal accelerated international expansion and elevated its position as the world’s second-largest condom manufacturer.

SIIC Medical Science and Technology, along with Primavera Capital Fund II, agreed to acquire Vitaco Holdings for A$359.9 million to grow their international presence, broaden their health and wellness product range, and bolster their global market standing.

Biostime International Holdings Ltd completed its acquisition of Swisse Wellness Pty Ltd by purchasing the remaining 17% stake for A$311.3 million. This strategic move, building on its earlier 80% stake acquisition, aimed to strengthen Biostime's global presence in the health and wellness market, diversify its product range, and leveraged Swisse's strong brand in premium supplements, especially in Australia and globally.

Wanda Cinema Line Co Ltd, a leading Chinese cinema operator, acquired Hoyts Corporation Pty Ltd from ID Leisure International Capital for A$1 billion. Wanda aimed to achieve synergy through this acquisition, boost market competitiveness and profitability, and advance its international expansion.

JingDong Property Inc, the infrastructure arm of JD.com, acquired the Wacol Logistics Hub for A$250 million to establish its first industrial asset in Australia and expand its global logistics footprint. The deal supports JD’s strategy to double its international warehousing capacity and capitalize on Australia’s robust industrial property market and strategic location.​

Ebang International Holdings Inc acquired Compass Global Holdings Pty Ltd to obtain an Australian Financial Services License, enabling access to foreign currency market resources and diversifying its financial services offerings.

Tencent Holdings acquired a 5% stake in Afterpay for A$313.3 million to leverage its experience and network, collaborate on technology and geographic expansion, and enhance payment options. The investment aligned with Tencent's focus on customer-centric, interest-free payment models and Afterpay's growth strategy, despite strained China-Australia economic relations.

Yunnan Copper Co., Ltd. acquired China Yunnan Copper (Australia) Investment And Development Co. Ltd. from Yunnan Copper (Group) Co., Ltd. for A$11.8 million. The stake was acquired via Shanghai United Property Rights transaction.  

China Reinsurance (Group) Corp acquired the remaining stake in Sydney-based Hanover Australia Holdco Pty Ltd for A$18.3 million from Hanover Insurance Group Inc. Simultaneously, it agreed to purchase the entire share capital of Chaucer Insurance Co DAC and Hanover Insurance International Holding Ltd.

Shanghai Illuminera Marketing Strategy Consulting Co., Ltd. acquired DBM Consultants Pty Ltd, with undisclosed terms. The partnership combined DBM's expertise in financial services and consumer insights with Illuminera's data-driven marketing capabilities to deliver innovative solutions, expand offerings, and support digital transformation in the Asia-Pacific region.

China Construction Bank Corporation acquired the Australian loan book of The Royal Bank of Scotland Group in a strategic move to expand its presence in the Australian market. This acquisition aligned with its goal of strengthening its global footprint and enhancing its financial services portfolio. 

Hillhouse Investment Management Ltd acquired a majority stake in George Clinical Pty Ltd for A$500 million to drive global expansion, strengthen leadership in clinical research, and enhance service offerings, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region.

NanoMab Technology Ltd of China acquired an 8.3% stake in Radiopharm Theranostics Ltd for A$12.6 million. This transaction supported Radiopharm's focus on innovation by enhancing its IP portfolio and accelerating the clinical development of multiple assets.

Yongji Printing Co., Ltd., via Y Cannabis Holdings Pty Ltd., acquired a 45% stake in Tasmanian Botanics Pty Limited, an Australia-based company engaged in plant of medical marijuana and production of cannabinoid, for a cash consideration of A$27 million.

A consortium led by Aldworth Management, Mason Group Holdings Limited, and We Doctor Group Limited acquired an 89.5% stake in Genea Limited, an Australia-based fertility clinic company for infertility, IVF and other assisted conception treatment, for a consideration of A$303.2 million.

China Pioneer Pharma Holdings Ltd of China (CPPH) invested $45.2 million in Paragon Care, acquiring a 15% stake. This investment validated Paragon's growth strategy in the Australian and New Zealand healthcare sectors while enabling cross-selling opportunities between the companies. Paragon would use the funds for acquisitions to expand its presence in under-serviced regions like Queensland and New Zealand.

A consortium led by CDH Investments, a Chinese alternative asset fund manager, acquired SIRTex Medical Ltd, an Australian company specializing in liver cancer treatment products, for A$1.7 billion. The acquisition aimed to ensure SIRTex's continued success and drive its global growth in both existing and new markets.

Hengkang Medical Group Co., Ltd. acquired a 70% stake in PRP Diagnostic Imaging Pty Ltd for A$331.8 million, aligning with its strategy to optimize its business structure and strengthen sustainable development capabilities.

Healthe Care Australia Pty Ltd., a subsidiary of Luye Pharma Group Ltd., a publicly listed company in China, acquired Pulse Health Limited entirely for A$134.4 million. This acquisition aimed to expand its private hospital network and bolster its footprint in the healthcare markets of Australia and New Zealand.

Luye Medical Group acquired Healthe Care Australia for approximately A$938 million to expand its hospital network in Australia and Asia, enhance private healthcare access, and support long-term growth, including opportunities in China.

Jangho Group Co., Ltd. acquired an additional 78.1% stake in Vision Eye Institute Limited for A$188.3 million. The acquisition aimed to maintain Vision's operations, support its growth plans, and retain its management and employees, ensuring confidence in Vision’s business strategy. This move aligned with Jangho's goal to strengthen its position in the healthcare sector.

Fujian Yongfu Power Engineering Co Ltd and Fusion Source Energy Pty Ltd acquired Oxley Solar Farm to expand its global renewable energy footprint and leverage Australia’s strong solar potential within the New England Renewable Energy Zone. The project offers a fully approved, large-scale solar and battery opportunity aligned with Australia’s clean energy goals.​

Ganzhou Chenguang Rare Earth New Material Co Ltd, a subsidiary of Shenghe Resources, acquired a 17.5% stake in Peak Rare Earths for A$7.5 million as part of its strategy to secure access to high-grade rare earth assets and strengthen its position in global supply chains.​

JCHX Mining Management Co., Ltd. acquired a 51% stake in Terra Mining Pty Ltd to accelerate its international expansion and strengthen its mining services portfolio. Terra Mining’s expertise in open-pit mining operations complements JCHX’s underground mining capabilities, creating synergies that enhance operational efficiency and project execution.​

Wanguo International Mining Group Limited acquired an additional 20.2% stake in AXF Gold Ridge Pty Ltd. from Gold Crane Group Limited, Wei Jiaming, and Wu Zhengxi for A$142.9 million. This strategic acquisition was designed to bolster the group's control over the Gold Ridge Mine project in the Solomon Islands, enhancing operational efficiency and unlocking the site's gold production potential.

Beijing Energy International acquired a 40% stake in Beijing Jingneng Clean Energy (Australia) for A$183 million. This move strengthens its presence in Australia's renewable energy market and aligns with its goal to expand and diversify its sustainable energy portfolio.

Inner Mongolia Huineng Coal & Electricity Group Yulin Baoneng Mining Co., Ltd. acquired Primary Gold Pty. Ltd. from Hgm Resources Pty. Ltd. for A$303.1 million to diversify into gold mining, gain the Mount Bundy Gold Project, and expand its international resource portfolio.

Zhaojin Mining Industry Co Ltd, acquired 93.1% stake of Tietto Minerals Ltd, the Australia based mining company focused on gold, coal, and diamond reserves, representing for A$629.1 million. The acquisition would expand Zhaojin Mining’s business overseas and increase profitability.

Hainan Mining Co., Ltd, a Chinese iron ore mining and exploitation firm, purchased a 49% stake in Roc Oil Co. Pty Ltd, an Australian company specializing in oil and natural gas exploration and production, for A$241.7 million.

Shandong Gold Mining Co., Ltd acquired Cardinal Resources Limited for A$605.2 million to expand its global presence and access high-quality gold assets. The acquisition strengthened Shandong Gold's strategy in overseas operations and established a long-life gold mine in Ghana, benefiting Cardinal shareholders with a significant market premium.

Xinhai Investment Limited acquired a 51% stake in Roc Oil Company Limited from Transcendent Resources Limited for approximately A$230 million. This acquisition aimed to strengthen Xinhai's position in the oil and gas sector and expand its portfolio in energy exploration and production.

ENN Ecological Holdings Co Ltd acquired a 4.8% stake in Santos Ltd, an Adelaide-based producer of crude petroleum and natural gas, from Great Multitude Ltd for a total of A$499.1 million. This strategic investment aligned with ENN's goal to expand its portfolio in natural gas and energy resources, leveraging Santos’s expertise and assets to enhance its international presence and capabilities.

State Power Investment Corporation (SPIC) secured Pacific Hydro Pty Ltd. in an auction from IFM Investors Pty Ltd and others for A$3 billion. The acquisition enhanced SPIC’s global renewable energy footprint, added 900 MW of hydro and wind capacity, and reinforced its commitment to clean energy expansion.

Guangdong Rising Assets Management Co., Ltd offered A$1062.1 million to acquire the remaining 77.5% of PanAust Ltd to bolster its mining sector presence, access copper and gold assets, and expand internationally, including leveraging the Frieda River project in Papua New Guinea.