The Panamanian government has taken control of the Balboa and Cristóbal ports following a Supreme Court ruling that invalidated the concession held by Panama Ports Company (PPC), a subsidiary of CK Hutchison Holdings (CKHH). The ruling, issued in late January, effectively voided the long‑standing agreement that had granted PPC operational control at both ends of the Panama Canal.

According to reporting by ShippingWatch, the Panamanian government has assigned two other companies to  oversee port operations. The port in Balboa will be operated temporarily by APM Terminals Panama, which is affiliated with Maersk. Terminal Investment Limited (TIL), which is a part of MSC, was selected to oversee port operations in Cristóbal. 

These interim arrangements are expected to remain in place until the government begins a formal rebidding process for new long‑term concessions.

CK Hutchison Holdings has publicly criticized Panama’s actions. In a statement released by the company, it wrote: “CKHH [CK Hutchison Holdings Limited] considers the Ruling, the Executive Decree, the purported termination of PPC’s concession, and the takeover of the terminals to be unlawful.”

The company also confirmed that it will evaluate all possible legal options. “PPC and CKHH will continue to consult with their legal advisors regarding the Ruling and forceful takeover, the purported termination of PPC’s concession and all available recourse including additional national and international legal proceedings against the Republic of Panama and its agents and third parties colluding with them, to reserve all rights and recourse against them, in relation to this matter,” the press release said.

Source: ShippingWatch, CK Hutchinson Holdings