Ban Chinese-linked operators from key Panama Canal ports, US envoy says

The US ambassador to Panama on Wednesday called for the removal of Chinese-linked operators from key Panama Canal ports, sharpening Washington’s campaign to curb Beijing’s influence over Latin American strategic infrastructure.

Speaking during a visit to Colón, Kevin Marino Cabrera criticised Panama Ports Company, a subsidiary of Hong Kong-based CK Hutchison, and said Washington supported efforts to replace it.

“Our position is that they are a bad operator. They have not done a good job,” Cabrera said. “It is a company of the Communist Party. We are enthusiastic that they will soon no longer be operating those ports.”

He added that any new operators should be reliable companies “committed to supporting the Panamanian people”.

Cabrera’s remarks followed a series of political and legal developments surrounding the 25-year concession renewal granted to Panama Ports Company in 2021.

In late July, Panamanian Comptroller General Anel Flores filed two lawsuits before the Panamanian Supreme Court seeking to annul the contract. The filings allege the renewal process violated constitutional procedures and included financial irregularities.