Panama Loses 220 Ship Registrations Amid Tensions Over China Port Inspections

Panama's prominent maritime registry is facing a significant challenge, with around 220 ships de-registering from its flag in the last two months. René Gómez, president of the Panamanian Maritime Chamber, confirmed the figures, stating they align with data from maritime intelligence firms like Lloyd’s List Intelligence. He indicated that these departures are directly connected to intensified security inspections being conducted on vessels in Chinese ports.

"We have received information that from April to date, 220 ships have left the registry," Gómez stated. He noted that 60 of these vessels belong to a Chinese shipping company, while others operate on trade routes involving Chinese ports. This trend has emerged despite recent diplomatic efforts between Panama and China to ease tensions, including a meeting between their foreign ministers in New York that was described as positive.

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We have received information that from April to date, 220 ships have left the registry.

The number of detentions has surged dramatically, with Gómez reporting that monthly detentions, previously no more than 45, recently reached a high of 156. This situation comes as Panama, once the world's largest ship registry, has been surpassed by Liberia. The Panamanian Maritime Chamber is closely monitoring the potential economic impact on a sector vital to the nation's economy, which currently registers approximately 8,700 vessels under its flag.

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From last year, no more than 45 detentions per month occurred, and recently the highest number we have received is 156 under the list we are reviewing.