The Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Algernon Yau, today (February 24) lodged a strong protest with the Consul General of Panama in Hong Kong. The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government expressed strong dissatisfaction with and opposition to the Panamanian government's forceful takeover yesterday (February 23) of the two Panamanian ports operated by Hutchison Ports Panama Ports Company and the termination of its operating rights, which undermines the spirit of contracts. The HKSAR Government stressed that it is firmly committed to safeguarding the legitimate rights and interests of Hong Kong enterprises overseas.
 
​     A Government spokesman reiterated that the earlier ruling made by the Supreme Court of Justice of Panama, which declared the operation of the two Panamanian ports by the company concerned unconstitutional, disregarded facts and breached faith. The company concerned had already initiated and commenced arbitration proceedings. However, the forceful takeover of the two ports by the Panamanian government yesterday gravely damaged the legitimate rights and interests of the Hong Kong enterprise and undermined the spirit of contracts. The HKSAR Government condemns such a blatant act.

​     The HKSAR Government urged the Panamanian government again to respect the spirit of contracts and provide a fair and just business environment for companies operating legally there, ensuring that the legitimate rights of enterprises are free from any interference. Hong Kong enterprises operating and investing in Panama should receive fair and reasonable treatment and protection.

​     The spokesman stressed that the company concerned has made vast investments in Panama and created abundant jobs over the years. The ruling and the unjust action by the Panamanian government have sabotaged Panama's creditworthiness and gravely undermined international trade rules.

Ends/Tuesday, February 24, 2026
Issued at HKT 16:24

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