China Threatens to Block Panama Ports Deal Unless Its Shipping Giant Is Part of It
Wall Street JournalThursday, July 17, 2025 at 9:30:00 AM
China is flexing its economic muscle in a high-stakes ports deal, warning Panama that it could block the sale of key ports—including two at the Panama Canal—unless its state-owned shipping giant, COSCO, gets a piece of the action. The ports in question are currently owned by Hong Kong’s CK Hutchison, and the deal spans over 40 ports globally. Beijing’s move signals its determination to control critical trade infrastructure, even if it means strong-arming smaller nations.
Editor’s Note: This isn’t just about ports—it’s about power. The Panama Canal is one of the world’s most vital trade routes, and China’s push to dominate its infrastructure highlights how economic deals are increasingly geopolitical chess moves. For smaller countries like Panama, it’s a tough spot: cave to pressure or risk losing out on major investments. For the rest of the world, it’s another reminder of how China’s Belt and Road ambitions are reshaping global trade—on its terms.
— Curated via WP Now’s
