bbc.com
China's Growing, but Contested, Influence Around the Panama Canal
A BBC Verify analysis reveals that while China's infrastructure projects around the Panama Canal have increased since Panama joined the BRI in 2017 (and Panama's subsequent withdrawal in early 2025), the US remains the canal's primary user. Concerns remain about potential Chinese influence, especially regarding ports operated by a Hong Kong-based company and a new bridge under construction.
- How has Panama's participation in and subsequent withdrawal from China's Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) affected the level of Chinese investment and influence in the Panama Canal area?
- China's growing influence around the Panama Canal stems from its increased investment in infrastructure projects, particularly after Panama's 2017 BRI participation. While this involvement has raised concerns in the US regarding potential strategic control, Panama has since withdrawn from the BRI in early 2025 and several major Chinese-led projects have been halted or canceled, suggesting a shift in Panama's approach.
- What are the long-term strategic implications of China's infrastructure projects near the Panama Canal for US-China relations and the broader geopolitical balance of power in the region?
- The future impact of China's involvement around the Panama Canal remains uncertain. While concerns about Chinese strategic influence persist, Panama's withdrawal from the BRI and the cancellation of several large-scale Chinese projects indicate a potential lessening of Chinese influence. The ongoing construction of a new bridge by a Chinese firm is a key area for continued monitoring.
- What is the extent of China's actual control over the Panama Canal and its surrounding infrastructure, and what are the immediate implications for global trade and geopolitical dynamics?
- President Trump's claims of China "operating" the Panama Canal are inaccurate. While China's involvement in infrastructure projects around the canal has increased since Panama joined the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) in 2017, the US remains the primary user. This increased Chinese presence is primarily focused on ports and a new bridge, raising concerns about potential future influence.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The headline and introduction immediately establish a narrative centered on President Trump's claims and concerns about China's influence. This framing sets the tone for the subsequent reporting, emphasizing the potential risks and security concerns associated with Chinese involvement. While presenting some counterpoints and Panamanian actions, the overall structure and emphasis lend weight to the concerns raised by the US side. The article's inclusion of satellite images seemingly intends to visually demonstrate the progress of Chinese-led projects, adding to a narrative of increasing Chinese presence around the canal.
Language Bias
The article uses relatively neutral language, though the choice of words occasionally leans towards highlighting concerns. For example, phrases like "increasing Chinese presence," "potential risks," and "concerns raised by US officials" subtly convey a sense of apprehension. While not overtly biased, these word choices could influence reader perception. More neutral alternatives could include 'expanding Chinese involvement', 'possible challenges', and 'statements from US officials'.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on concerns raised by US officials and experts regarding Chinese influence around the Panama Canal, potentially omitting perspectives from Panamanian officials or businesses that might offer a different view on the economic and infrastructural benefits of Chinese investment. The article also doesn't delve into the specifics of the "national security law" that allows China to exert influence on Hong Kong-based companies, only mentioning its existence. While acknowledging that the US is the primary user of the canal, the level of detail given to US concerns might overshadow a more balanced presentation of the situation.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a somewhat simplified narrative that could be interpreted as framing the issue as a US vs. China competition. While acknowledging Panamanian agency in some instances, the focus remains heavily on the concerns and actions of both US and Chinese entities, potentially overlooking other international players or nuances in the economic and geopolitical relations involved. The narrative does not fully explore a wide range of potential outcomes beyond the US-China dichotomy.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights increased Chinese investment in infrastructure projects around the Panama Canal, including a new bridge and expansion of the Panama City metro. While some projects have been delayed or cancelled, the investments represent a significant contribution to infrastructure development in Panama. This aligns with SDG 9, which aims to build resilient infrastructure, promote inclusive and sustainable industrialization and foster innovation. The increased infrastructure improves connectivity and trade.