From the Los Angeles Times (free registration required):
Flush with cash and a strong desire to expand their global reach, Chinese companies have stepped up their shopping spree to acquire U.S. assets, highlighted Tuesday by reports of a possible bid for Unocal Corp. and an offer for Maytag Corp.
Mainland Chinese investments in the United States have been relatively small, attracting little attention. But analysts predict that China’s growing visibility could spark a backlash reminiscent of anti-Japan sentiments that arose two decades ago, given concerns on Capitol Hill that China represents a serious economic threat and future military challenger.