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BlackRock-Led Consortium Acquires Panama Canal Ports in $22.8 Billion Deal

The purchase shifts control of key ports from Hong Kong-based CK Hutchison to U.S. and Swiss investors following political and security concerns raised by President Trump.

  • BlackRock and partners Global Infrastructure Partners and Terminal Investment Limited will acquire a 90% stake in Panama Ports Company, which operates the Balboa and Cristobal ports on either end of the Panama Canal.
  • The $22.8 billion deal also includes CK Hutchison's controlling stake in 43 ports across 23 countries, marking BlackRock's largest infrastructure acquisition to date.
  • President Trump has framed the deal as a victory in reducing China's perceived influence near the canal, though CK Hutchison insists the sale is purely commercial.
  • Panama's government, which retains control over the canal itself, denies any foreign interference and has stated the sale is a private transaction requiring regulatory approval.
  • The transaction follows U.S. pressure on Panama to limit Chinese involvement, including the country's withdrawal from China's Belt and Road Initiative after meetings with U.S. officials.
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