International News: Panama, China renew Maritime shipping agreement

By Zoila Palma:  Panama and China have reached an agreement to renew a maritime shipping treaty that provides preferential treatment for Panamanian-flagged vessels operating in Chinese ports.

The agreement follows concerns raised by Panama over increased inspections and tighter controls on its ships in China, AFP reports.

The Panamanian Foreign Ministry said Monday that, following negotiations in Beijing last week, the two countries had “reached a consensus” and would move forward with procedures to renew the agreement, which is set to expire later this year. The pact provides preferential tariffs and streamlined bureaucratic procedures for Panamanian vessels.

Local media reports indicated that nearly 500 Panamanian-flagged vessels were detained for inspections in China in 2026.

Acting Foreign Minister Carlos Hoyos said Monday that the number of inspections has since returned to “historical levels,” following discussions between the two governments.

Tensions increased after a Panamanian court cancelled the concession held by Panama Ports Company, a subsidiary of Hong Kong-based CK Hutchison, to operate two ports at the Panama Canal.

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