China Warns Panama of ‘Heavy Prices’ to Pay After CK Hutchison Contract Quashed

A vehicle passes by the administrative entrance to Balboa Port, at Panama Ports Company (PPC), after Panama’s Supreme Court annulled key port contracts held by the Hong Kong‑based CK Hutchison–owned firm, leaving the future of some Panama Canal operations uncertain, in Panama City, Panama, January 30, 2026. REUTERS/Aris Martinez/File Photo

China warned Panama on Tuesday there would be “heavy prices” to pay after a court ruling there annulled Hong Kong-based CK Hutchison’s contract to operate two ports at the Panama Canal.

China’s Hong Kong and Macau Affairs Office called the ruling by Panama’s Supreme Court “absurd,” “shameful and pathetic,” and vowed to defend the interests of Chinese firms.

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by Eric Olander

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