CMB Closes Bidding On Its Port Handling Division

Belgian shipping group CMB said on Wednesday it has closed the bidding period for the sale of a stake in the combined operation of its port handling Hessenatie division with peer Noord Natie.

"The bidding period is definitely over," the deputy chairman said.

He declined to comment on the number of bids submitted or when CMB would make a decision. Earlier, CMB had said that five foreign parties, including Port of Singapore and Eurogate, had expressed an interest in buying a stake in the combined company.

CMB shares were 2.44 percent lower at 76 euros ($67.74) in morning trade on Wednesday.