According to reporting by ShippingWatch, it cited consulting firm TI Logistics noting that growing tensions over control of the Panama Canal ports could introduce new operational and commercial risks to global supply chains. 

Data from the Tokyo MOU, as reported by American Shipper, showed an increase in the detention of Panama-flagged vessels in Chinese ports. In March 2026, ships registered in Panama accounted for three-quarters of all detentions in the region. This has increased from the 35% recorded in the first two months of the year. Vessel delays have ranged from one to ten days.

The U.S. Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) said the increased in inspections followed a Panama court ruling against Hong Kong-based CK Hutchison to operate the Balboa and Cristóbal terminals on the Pacific and Atlantic sides of the Panama Canal. Maersk subsidiary APM Terminals and MSC affiliate Terminal Investment Limited were subsequently appointed as interim operators.

In a statement, the FMC reported that the Chinese state-owned shipping line COSCO suspended its services at the Balboa terminal and rerouted its operations as a direct result of the dispute.

ShippingWatch reported that even minor interruptions can have outsized effects as maritime schedules are highly synchronized.

As reported by American Shipper, Panama maintains the world’s largest ship registry, covering approximately 9,000 vessels. As a result, the increased scrutiny of Panama‑flagged ships exposes a significant portion of the global fleet to the risk of delays.

Source: ShippingWatch, FMC,  American Shipper