Hong Kong‑based CK Hutchison's Panama Ports Company, S.A. (PPC) has filed arbitration proceedings against Maersk, accusing the Danish carrier of aligning with the Panamanian government during the state‑led takeover of its Balboa and Cristóbal port concessions. 

CK Hutchison said the arbitration is based on a long-term contract to facilitate a collaborative approach to business through the exclusive use of PPC port terminal operations in Panama and access to a range of PPC operational facilities and information.

"Panama Ports Company, S.A. has commenced arbitration proceedings against Maersk A/S (Maersk) in the aftermath of the takeover of the PPC port terminals in Panama," the global container terminal operator said on April 7.

"Contrary to the contract, Maersk undermined the contract and aligned with the Republic of Panama in connection with its State campaign against PPC and scheme to replace it through a takeover that installed new port operator."

Panama took control of the Balboa and Cristóbal container terminals earlier this year after the country's Supreme Court issued a final ruling declaring Hutchison Ports’ long‑standing concession unconstitutional. The government moved on February 23 to assume possession of both facilities, authorizing the Panama Maritime Authority to occupy the terminals and maintain interim operations until a new tender is held.

Officials said the decision restored state control after nearly three decades, while CK Hutchison denounced the action as an "unlawful" and "confiscatory" takeover carried out without transparency or coordination.

"It is already notorious that, on February 23, 2026, Panama expelled PPC from port operations through extreme executive measures, took over the port terminals, and entered into a pre-arranged concession contract for the Balboa terminal with a new operator that is affiliated with Maersk and has utilized PPC operational facilities and information," CK Hutchison said.

The arbitration will be held in London.

PPC said its arbitration filing against Maersk is a separate action from its broader dispute with the Panamanian government.

"The PPC claim against Maersk is distinct from and without prejudice to ongoing steps by PPC to hold Panama to account for its anti-contract and anti-investor conduct," CK Hutchison said, adding that PPC will "vigorously pursue its claims in the Maersk arbitration and its claims against Panama, as well as other rights and remedies."