BlackRock Secures $23 Billion Deal for Panama Canal Ports

The U.S.-led consortium acquires key ports from Hong Kong's CK Hutchison, shifting control amid geopolitical tensions over Chinese influence.

BlackRock, alongside partners Global Infrastructure Partners and Terminal Investment Limited, has agreed to purchase a 90% stake in Panama Ports Company from Hong Kong-based CK Hutchison for $22.8 billion.
The deal includes the Balboa and Cristobal ports at the Panama Canal's Pacific and Atlantic ends, as well as 43 other ports in 23 countries.
CK Hutchison maintains that the sale is a commercial decision, unrelated to political pressures, despite U.S. President Donald Trump's push to curb Chinese influence in the region.
Panama's government has stated the transaction is a private matter, but the sale follows U.S. diplomatic efforts, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio's visit urging reduced Chinese involvement.
The agreement requires approval from Panama's government and is seen as one of BlackRock's largest infrastructure investments to date.