Panamanian Authorities Audit Hong Kong-Based Port Operator Near Panama Canal

Trump restated on Jan. 20 during his inaugural address that he wants to have the Panama Canal back under U.S. control.

A tanker ship enters the Panama Canal from the Pacific Ocean side on Oct. 25, 2024. Martin Bernetti/AFP via Getty Images

Authorities in Panama announced on Jan. 20 that they have launched an audit of the Hong Kong-based port operator that controls ports near the Panama Canal, shortly after U.S. President Donald Trump repeated his intention during his inauguration to bring the waterway back under U.S. control.

Panama Ports Co., controlled by CK Hutchison Holdings, has been notified of the audit, according to the Panama Maritime Authority.