Uber China has signed an investment and strategic co-operation deal with conglomerate HNA Group, which promises a range of global tie-ups between Uber and HNA's airline, airport and hotel units.
Uber CEO Travis Kalanick said in statement: "Working together with HNA Group, we can provide an even more exciting and convenient service to travellers in China and around the world.”
Details are thin on the ground in terms of the amount of cash invested for how big a stake, although there is some more colour on the operational side of the tie-up which has implications for the entire Uber business, not just its Chinese unit.
For example, passengers travelling on flights operated by any HNA airline will get a deal on their Uber to or from the airport, while airports operated by HNA or served by its subsidiary Swissport will have the option to set up specific waiting areas for Uber driver partners and riders.
Special deals on local Uber rides will be offered to travellers staying at any HNA hotel in China and around the world.
The deal also sees HNA's financial arm brought in, with the pair already discussing insurance, leasing and financing options.
Baidu, the Chinese internet search giant, is Uber's highest profile partner in China signing a similar investment and co-operation agreement in December 2014.
Uber's Chinese operation faces considerable competition from market leader Didi Kuaidi, which is seen as having a bigger market share, more cash to invest and a better relationship with the authorities.
One way Uber is trying to close the gap is by opening its Chinese API to partners in order to increase its distribution options.
HNA and Uber "are also discussing opportunities to cooperate on API integration on mobile platforms, and will explore options to enable users of both services to enjoy additional benefits across the two platforms. In the future, passengers will also be able to hail an Uber ride directly from the HNA mobile app."
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