Panama Canal Deal Hits Snag

A US consortium's deal to acquire two ports in the Panama Canal zone has hit a snag after Chinese antitrust regulators launched an investigation into the acquisition. The probe has reportedly delayed the deal's closing, which was initially set for next week.

The deal, led by BlackRock, the world's largest asset manager, involves acquiring Hong Kong firm CK Hutchison's controlling interest in 43 ports worldwide, comprising 199 berths in 23 countries. However, China's State Administration for Market Regulation has initiated an investigation into the deal, citing concerns over fair competition and public interest.

The development comes amid growing tensions between China and the US, with the Trump administration announcing new tariffs on Chinese goods and China retaliating with its own measures. President Donald Trump has also incorrectly claimed that China controls the Panama Canal, despite Panama operating the canal since its handover in 1999.

The Panama Canal is a critical passage for global trade and military ships, with approximately 4% of the world's maritime trade and over 40% of US container traffic passing through it. The canal earned nearly $5 billion in total profits in 2024 and generates 23.6% of Panama's annual income.

Trump has threatened to have the US take control of the canal, and his national security adviser, Mike Waltz, has stated that Panama's leadership is negotiating to address Chinese influence in the region. Additionally, Secretary of State Marco Rubio has expressed support for waiving fees for US vessels traversing the canal, citing the US obligation to protect the canal in the event of an attack.