US ‘pressure’ a major challenge to CK Hutchison’s arbitration against Panama: experts

South China Morning PostCenter-RightEN 1 min read 100% complete by Leopold ChenFebruary 4, 2026 at 11:39 AM

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CK Hutchison Holdings, through its subsidiary Panama Ports Company (PCC), has initiated arbitration against Panamanian authorities over a court ruling that declared PCC's concessions to operate the Balboa and Cristobal terminals at the Panama Canal unconstitutional. The arbitration, filed with the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), alleges breach of contract and seeks extensive damages. The dispute stems from a ruling by Panama's Supreme Court of Justice that could strip PCC of its concession this month. Experts suggest that political pressure from the United States poses a significant challenge to CK Hutchison's legal action, making it unlikely the company will retain the concession. They believe seeking reasonable compensation would be a more realistic outcome. The resolution of the arbitration is expected to take years.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Chinese Association of Hong Kong and Macau Studies 30% Lau Siu-kai 35% Balboa 40% Cristobal 40% International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) 40% Supreme Court of Justice 50% Panama Canal 60% Li Ka-shing 60% United States ×270% Panama ×280% Panama Ports Company (PCC) ×385% CK Hutchison Holdings ×390%

Keywords

arbitration 90% ck hutchison 80% panama 80% port concessions 70% political pressure 70% united states 60% panama ports company 60% breach of contract 50% international chamber of commerce 40%