The former administrator of the Panama Canal, Jorge Quijano, warned about the possible economic impact that the tariffs imposed by the United States on products and vessels connected with China, Canada, and Mexico could have. At a National Forum on the Panama Canal, Quijano pointed out that 74% of what transits through the canal is related to the United States. According to his statements, this measure would directly affect consumers and businesses, increasing prices in chains like Walmart and Amazon. In response to Donald Trump's remarks, who hinted that the canal should return to U.S. hands, various business leaders and experts expressed their concern during the forum. Giulia de Sanctis, president of the Panamanian Association of Business Executives (APEDE), mentioned that this situation represents one of the most serious crises the country has faced since the 1989 invasion. De Sanctis stated: 'That the president of the most powerful country in the world says he wants the canal back in the United States puts us in a position of weakness.' For his part, Jorge Quijano recalled that the expansion of the canal was an achievement managed by the Panamanian state and not by the United States, highlighting the importance of Panamanian sovereignty over this interoceanic route. Additionally, he warned about the penalties for vessels built in China that reach U.S. ports, which would increase global trade costs. In this regard, he pointed out that potential tariffs would negatively impact consumers and businesses, affecting product prices in recognized commercial chains.
Impact of US Tariffs on Panama Canal Discussed
At a national forum, former Panama Canal administrator Jorge Quijano warned about the economic impact of tariffs imposed by the US on goods connected with China, Canada, and Mexico. Business leaders expressed concerns over the sovereignty of the canal and its management by Panama.
