Core Viewpoint - The Panamanian government has annulled key port contracts held by CK Hutchison's subsidiary, transferring operations to A.P. Moller-Maersk and Mediterranean Shipping Co. [1][2] Group 1: Contract Annulment - The Panamanian Supreme Court ruled that the concessions for the Balboa and Cristobal terminals, held by Panama Port Company (a CK Hutchison subsidiary) for over 20 years, were unconstitutional [2] - The government has formally assumed control of the port facilities, including cranes, vehicles, and software, to ensure uninterrupted operations until a new concession is awarded within 18 months [2] Group 2: Interim Operations - APM Terminals, a Maersk unit, will operate Balboa port, while MSC's Terminal Investment will manage Cristobal port under the interim arrangement [3] - Following the announcement, CK Hutchison's shares fell by 0.9% at market open, although the stock has increased over 20% year-to-date [3]
Panama cancels China-linked port deal, hands canal terminals to Maersk, MSC