LIGHTING maker Sanan Optoelectronics Co. has held talks with Germany’s Osram Licht AG about a possible acquisition, raising the possibility of a deal that would add to what’s already a record year for Chinese purchases overseas.

    Shanghai-listed Sanan had an “initial communication” with Osram on a potential acquisition or cooperation and met Osram once, according to a statement from the Chinese company Tuesday. Sanan didn’t provide details about the status of the talks, saying that none occurred on details including price and no binding documents have been signed.

    Should a purchase be completed, the Chinese company would gain control of a German high-end lighting maker that makes products such as the headlights that go into the latest BMW 7-series cars.

    A deal would build on the more than US$190 billion in foreign acquisitions that Chinese companies have announced this year. It would also add to a series of Chinese purchases of German industrial companies that has raised concerns among politicians in the European country.

    There are “significant uncertainties” on whether a deal will be reached, Sanan said.

    Sanan, established in 2000 on the southeastern Chinese island of Xiamen, makes products that go into indoor and outdoor lighting, as well as traffic lights and aerospace. (SD-Agencies)