LI YIBO, the former party secretary and chairman of the state-owned Guangzhou Port Group, has been expelled from the Chinese Communist Party and dismissed from his position following a disciplinary investigation.

According to the Guangzhou Municipal Commission for Discipline, between 2015 and 2024, Li accepted more than Yuan1.3m ($177,300) in cash gifts from subordinates and individuals under his management. He also received luxury items, including premium liquors and branded watches. Additionally, in August 2020, a private business funded a family trip Li took to Yunnan.

Li is also suspected of being involved the potential irregularities related to the construction and infrastructure projects managed by the GPG. The case has been forwarded to prosecutors for further investigation and potential prosecution because of the severity of the violations.

The 58-year-old Li spent more than 30 years at Guangzhou port, holding various leadership roles. He was promoted to the top position on October 25, 2019. His last public appearance was on March 29, 2024.

Li’s detention for investigation was announced on April 30, 2024, followed by his subordinate, Chen Hongwei, being placed under investigation for suspected criminal activities.

Chen, 57, had worked closely with Li and was promoted to general manager of the listed unit, Guangzhou Port Co, overseeing accounting operations after Li’s appointment as chairman.

Following Li's removal, Huang Bo, 51, who was serving as general manager and deputy head of the group, stepped in as acting chairman. On December 30, 2024, Huang was officially appointed chairman and legal representative of GPG. Huang has held several key positions within Guangzhou Port Authority and the port group during his career.

According to its official website, GPG boosts over Yuan60bn in total assets, operates nearly 200 subsidiaries, and employs almost 20,000 workers.