Peru court revokes ruling limiting port oversight of Chinese operator

A Peruvian court has reinstated the oversight authority of the national transport infrastructure regulator over the strategically important Chancay port, a decision that impacts the operations of its Chinese operator, Cosco Shipping Ports.

The Superior Court of Justice in Lima revoked a previous ruling that had restricted the powers of the Organismo Supervisor de la Inversión en Infraestructura de Transporte de Uso Público (Ositran). The court declared inadmissible a legal challenge filed by the Chinese firm, asserting that Ositran's supervisory actions are a standard part of its regulatory functions and do not pose an imminent threat to fundamental rights.

This decision allows Ositran to resume its regulatory, supervisory, inspection, and sanctioning duties for the Terminal Portuario Multipropósito de Chancay. The port, which began commercial operations a year ago, is positioned as a key maritime hub connecting South America and Asia, significantly reducing transit times to China. The court emphasized that as a public transport infrastructure, the port remains subject to national oversight regardless of private ownership.

The ruling clarifies that any disputes arising from administrative procedures should be resolved through the established legal and administrative channels, reinforcing the Peruvian government's authority in overseeing critical infrastructure projects.