Panama and China have agreed to renew their bilateral Maritime Transport Agreement, preserving preferential treatment for Panamanian-flagged vessels calling at Chinese ports. The agreement follows high-level negotiations held in Beijing on 16–17 July. Panama’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said both countries had reached a consensus and would begin the formal renewal process for the agreement, which expires later this year. The treaty grants preferential port tariffs and simplified administrative procedures for ships sailing under the Panamanian flag in Chinese ports. The renewal comes after a period of tension between the two countries. Panama had raised concerns over a sharp increase in inspections and detentions of its vessels in Chinese ports. The inspections followed a Panamanian court ruling that cancelled the concession held by Panama Ports Company, a subsidiary of Hong Kong-based CK Hutchison, to operate two terminals linked to the Panama Canal. According to local media, nearly 500 Panamanian-flagged vessels were detained for inspection during 2026. Acting Foreign Minister Carlos Hoyos said inspection levels have now returned to their historical average. The agreement is considered important for Panama’s ship registry, the world’s largest by number of vessels, as it helps maintain the competitiveness of Panamanian-flagged ships trading with China. The post Panama and China renew maritime transport agreement appeared first on Container News .