The Panama Canal, a crucial artery for global trade, is at the centre of growing tensions between the United States and China. Donald Trump has claimed that Chinese companies exert undue influence over the waterway, accusing Panama of overcharging US businesses. But does the US still have a legitimate stake in the canal?
With Trump demanding action, Panama faces a difficult choice. Could a renegotiation of tolls or a review of Chinese port contracts ease US concerns?
Contributors:
Will Freeman, Fellow for Latin American studies at the Council on Foreign Relations
Andrew Thomas, Academic and Author of The Canal of Panama and Globalisation
Dr Yu Jie, Senior Research Fellow on China in the Asia-Pacific Programme at Chatham House
David Young, President of the Committee for Economic Development
Presented by Gary O’Donoghue
Produced by Louise Clarke
Researched by Katie Morgan
Technical producer Matthew Dempsey
Production Coordinator Liam Morrey
Editor Tara McDermott
Image credit: Getty Images via MARTIN BERNETTI
