Panama Court Voids Hong Kong Firm's Canal Port Deal
The Spin
Pro-China narrative
This ruling is a dangerous assault on the rule of law and investor confidence. The company operated transparently for decades, generating billions in economic activity while fully complying with legal obligations, yet it faces politically motivated attacks that jeopardize thousands of local jobs. This coercive campaign undermines Panama's reputation as a reliable jurisdiction and threatens the legitimate business interests of international enterprises operating under valid contracts.
Anti-China narrative
The Supreme Court decision rightfully voids an unconstitutional concession that deprived Panama of over $1.2 billion while a Chinese-linked firm profited massively from strategic infrastructure. This ruling advances national sovereignty and curbs foreign influence over critical trade chokepoints at the Panama Canal. The contract extension lacked proper approvals and involved serious accounting irregularities that cost the government hundreds of millions.
