People involved in the deal said it could open China's market more to Smithfield sausage, hams and other meat, instead of paving the way for broadening channels into the U.S. for the Chinese company's products.

WSJ: Poultry-Plant Fire in China Kills More Than 100

People involved in the deal said it could open China's market more to Smithfield sausage, hams and other meat, instead of pave the way for broadening channels into the U.S. for the Chinese company's products.

WSJ: Poultry-Plant Fire in China Kills More Than 100

We have highly complementary business operations and we have pursued very similar strategies by broadening out our product ranges and distribution channels, '' said Jonathan Bloomer , group chief executive of Prudential, who will head up the combined companies.

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