Marriott’s $13.6 billion acquisition of Starwood Hotels & Resorts has encountered a 60-day delay following the request for an extended review by China’s Ministry of Commerce. Approval from the ministry is the final hurdle necessary for completing the merger. The agreement was originally slated to close this week.
Regulators from 40 countries have already issued approval for the deal. Marriott received antitrust clearance from the European Union in late June. If the agreement closes successfully, the company will comprise 30 brands and 1.1 million guestrooms.