Washington warns against China’s role in Panama Canal trade

The United States has said that Panama must remain free from what it described as “predatory influence,” warning against China’s involvement in the country’s maritime sector.

In a statement, the Bureau of Western Hemisphere Affairs stressed Panama’s strategic importance, saying: “Panama is a pillar of our maritime system and must remain free from predatory influence. We will not tolerate China’s interference in maritime trade in our neighbourhood.”

The bureau, which operates under the US Department of State, is responsible for implementing US foreign policy across the Western Hemisphere and advancing Washington’s regional interests.

Panama holds a critical position in global trade due to the Panama Canal, through which approximately 40% of all US container traffic passes annually.

The canal has increasingly become a focal point in the administration of Donald Trump, as Washington seeks to limit the influence of rival powers in the Western Hemisphere.

By Tamilla Hasanova