Panama Ports Company

Panama Ports Company (PPC), a subsidiary of Hong Kong-based CK Hutchison Holdings, is at the center of a major international dispute after Panama's Supreme Court ruled its concession to operate two key ports on the Panama Canal unconstitutional. This ruling, made public in early 2026, has led to the Panamanian government taking over operations of the ports. CK Hutchison is contesting the decision, initiating international arbitration against Panama and seeking $2 billion in damages. The situation has drawn criticism from China, whose Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office condemned the ruling. The US, however, has reportedly welcomed the decision. Panamanian President Jose Raul Mulino defends the judiciary's decision as being within Panama's legal framework. The case is significant due to the strategic importance of the Panama Canal and the potential impact on international trade and relations between Panama, China, and the US.