Huan Qiu Shi Bao·2026-02-24 22:59Core Viewpoint - The Panamanian government has forcibly taken control of two ports operated by Hong Kong's CK Hutchison Holdings in the Panama Canal, leading to strong protests from both the Hong Kong government and CK Hutchison [1][4]. Group 1: Government Actions - On January 23, the Panamanian Supreme Court declared the contract granting CK Hutchison's subsidiary the right to operate the ports invalid, citing "unconstitutionality" [1][3]. - President Laurentino Cortizo ordered the temporary takeover of Balboa and Cristobal ports, claiming it was necessary for "public interest" and that the takeover would not imply a permanent loss of ownership [1][3]. - The ports will be temporarily managed by subsidiaries of Maersk and Mediterranean Shipping Company for a period of 18 months, with plans for a public bidding process to award the operating rights to independent companies [3]. Group 2: Company Response - CK Hutchison stated that the Panamanian government's actions were illegal and posed serious risks to the operational order, health, and safety of the ports [4]. - The company has initiated arbitration proceedings against Panama, claiming damages of $2 billion due to the forced termination of its operating rights [4]. Group 3: Industry Impact - The takeover has already caused delays in shipments from China to Panama, leading to increased logistics costs and freight rates due to port congestion [5]. - There is a general sentiment among the Panamanian public against the government's actions, with concerns about significant economic losses resulting from the takeover [5].