Last week we brought you news that Google’s purchase of Motorola Mobility had hit a snag with China’s Ministry of Commerce. While regulatory approval for the purchase had been granted in every other country where it was required – including the U.S., Canada, Israel, Turkey, and the European Union – Chinese officials appeared to be dragging their feet, raising worries that the deal might miss it’s second quarter closing goal.
Those worries appeared to be unfounded, however. According to the Wall Street Journal, Chinese authorities approved the deal yesterday on the condition that Google keep Android open and that they not discriminate against any handset makers for five years.
Following the approval, Motorola filed a form 8-K with the Securities and Exchange commission. According to the filing (PDF), Motorola received word on the 19th that approval had been granted, and stated that “the companies are moving to close the transaction within two business days.” Assuming they maintain that timeline (and there’s no reason to think they won’t), then Google will officially own Motorola Mobility no later than Wednesday, May 23.