Panama has officially withdrawn from China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), signaling a major geopolitical shift. The decision by President José Raúl Mulino comes amid U.S. pressure over China’s influence on the Panama Canal.

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• Panama joined BRI in 2017 after cutting ties with Taiwan.
• China funded key infrastructure projects, including a metro line and bridge.
• U.S. raised security concerns over Chinese investments in the Panama Canal.
• U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio warned of risks to canal neutrality.
• President Mulino decided not to renew BRI deal, expiring in 2026.
• Panama may review Chinese investments, especially in port operations.
• China criticized the U.S., calling the move external interference.
• The U.S. and China continue to compete for influence in Latin America.
• The Panama Canal remains a crucial trade route handling 6% of global maritime trade.
• Former U.S. President Trump suggested reclaiming control over the canal.