Panama launches control of Chinese port operator after Trump threats

Control began its authorities in the China-related company and controls two ports adjacent to the Panama Canal, as the president repeats his threats to take into his hands the water route, Bloomberg reports. The auditor’s office sent yesterday (20.1.25) a team of auditors to Panama Ports local offices in Panama, a subsidiary of CK Hutchison Holdings of billionaire Li Ka-shing from Hong Kong, to start his investigation, announced the auditor’s office in X in the shadow of Trump’s threats. The auditors will carry out an ‘exhaustive’ audit to ‘ensure the effective and transparent use of public funds’, according to the Communication. Control comes as Trump accuses Panama of allowing China to interfere with the canal. In his opening speech yesterday, Trump reiterated his claim that China is taking advantage of the water bridge and said his government would take it back. Hong Kong is a Chinese city, but with its own borders, currency and legal system. This move highlights the increasing exposure of Hong Kong companies to geopolitical risks, as politicians beyond the political divide in Washington reduce the town’s distinction from mainland China.