The sale of Hong Kong-based CK Hutchison's Panama ports to a BlackRock consortium has generated significant controversy. China expressed concerns that the deal could harm its national interests, while CK Hutchison maintains it is purely a commercial transaction.
Analysts highlight the US-China rivalry concerning the Panama Canal as a major factor influencing the deal. The US seeks to limit China's influence in the Western Hemisphere, particularly regarding critical infrastructure with national security implications. The Trump administration's focus on the Panama ports is linked to the significant amount of US container traffic that passes through the canal.
Domestic political pressure within Panama, along with pressure from the United States, contributed to the concessions granted to CK Hutchison for operating the ports over the decades. These pressures have mounted significantly. The article also mentions dual-use infrastructure, like the port in Chancay, Peru, as an example of areas of concern in regards to Chinese influence.