CK Hutchison demands $1.5 billion from Panama over port seizure

In February 2026, Panama seized the Balboa and Cristobal ports from CK Hutchison, claiming the concession was unconstitutional. CK Hutchison has initiated arbitration proceedings against Panama, seeking over $1.5 billion in damages for breach of an investment protection treaty. The seizure is linked to rising U.S.-China tensions and has complicated CK Hutchison's plans to sell its global ports business.