China's Growing Influence in Panama

CK Hutchison Holdings Limited is a Hong Kong-based multinational conglomerate formed in 2015 by merging Cheung Kong Holdings and Hutchison Whampoa. It operates across four core sectors: ports and related services, retail, infrastructure, and telecommunications, with additional investments in finance, energy, and life sciences[2][1]. In ports and related services, CK Hutchison is a global leader, operating container terminals in 53 ports across 24 countries. This division is crucial for facilitating international trade through efficient port operations and logistics[1][4]. The retail arm, mainly through AS Watson, manages over 17,000 stores worldwide, covering health and beauty, supermarkets, and consumer electronics markets in 31 countries, generating steady consumer-driven revenue[1][4]. The infrastructure segment invests in energy, transportation, water, waste management, and household infrastructure. It includes holdings in CK Infrastructure Holdings, supporting diversified infrastructure projects vital for urban development and sustainability[1][5]. Telecommunications is a major pillar, with CK Hutchison operating mobile networks under various brands in Europe, Asia, and Australia, including significant stakes in entities like Wind Tre in Italy and TPG Telecom in Australia. This division provides mobile and broadband services to millions, positioning CK Hutchison as a pioneer in global mobile broadband innovation[2][4]. Founded in 1828, CK Hutchison has evolved into a diversified conglomerate with strategic global reach. Its notable achievements include leadership in container terminal operations and pioneering telecommunications services in multiple markets. The company’s business model leverages diversification across sectors and geographies, enabling resilience and growth in a complex global economy[2][4][5]. Currently, CK Hutchison maintains a strong financial position and continues expanding its technological and infrastructure investments, keeping it at the forefront of business and technology sectors worldwide[5]. Its broad portfolio and international presence make it a key player in global trade, retail, infrastructure, and telecommunications industries.

## Overview The **Financial Times (FT)** is a globally renowned daily newspaper focused on international business, economic news, and financial markets, headquartered in London[2]. It is recognized for its in-depth analysis, editorial independence, and distinctive salmon-pink paper—a hallmark since 1893, originally chosen for cost-saving reasons but now a symbol of prestige[1][4]. The FT’s motto, “Without fear and without favour,” underscores its commitment to unbiased reporting[4]. ## What the Organization Does The FT delivers news across print and digital platforms, with editions tailored for the UK, Europe, the US, Asia, and the Middle East[1]. It features daily coverage of markets, companies, politics, and technology, along with special reports on industries, countries, and emerging trends[2]. Its weekend edition, **FT Weekend**, offers broader cultural and lifestyle content, while the FT Group provides subscription services for organizations seeking comprehensive global insights[2]. As of 2023, the FT boasts 1.3 million subscribers, with the vast majority accessing content digitally—a testament to its successful adaptation to the digital age[2]. ## History and Key Achievements Founded in 1888 by James Sheridan and his brother, the FT began as a four-page paper for London’s financial community, initially named the *London Financial Guide* before adopting its current title[1][3][4]. It quickly distinguished itself from competitors, notably the *Financial News*, by printing on pink paper—a tradition that endures[1][4]. A pivotal moment came in 1945 when the FT merged with its rival, the *Financial News*, consolidating its position as a leading financial publication[1][2][4]. Owned by Pearson from 1957, the FT expanded internationally, launching its first non-UK edition in Frankfurt in 1979 and entering the US market in 1985[1]. In 2015, Japanese media

COSCO Shipping, officially China COSCO Shipping Corporation Limited, is a Chinese state-owned multinational marine transportation conglomerate headquartered in Shanghai. Formed in 2016 through the merger of China Ocean Shipping Company (COSCO) and China Shipping Group Company, COSCO Shipping has rapidly become one of the world’s largest shipping and logistics operators, with a global footprint spanning container shipping, port operations, and integrated logistics services. COSCO’s roots trace back to 1961, when COSCO was established as China’s largest dry bulk carrier and a top global liner operator. The 2016 merger created a powerhouse with a fleet of over 440 container vessels and a total capacity of approximately 2.4 million TEUs by late 2025. COSCO Shipping Lines is among the world’s leading container carriers, while its terminal arm, COSCO SHIPPING Ports, operates 375 berths across 39 ports worldwide, including strategic assets in Europe such as Piraeus in Greece, and terminals in Belgium, Spain, and the Netherlands. In recent years, COSCO has distinguished itself through technological innovation and sustainability initiatives. The company has embraced digital intelligence and green low-carbon development, launching China’s first methanol dual-fuel powered containership, COSCO SHIPPING YANGPU, and collaborating with major ports to establish green shipping corridors. In the first half of 2025, COSCO SHIPPING Holdings reported strong financial results, with revenue reaching RMB109.1 billion and net profit of RMB20.2 billion, reflecting its resilience amid global market volatility. Notable for its influence on global supply chains and its pioneering role in sustainable shipping, COSCO continues to shape the future of maritime transport, blending operational scale with technological advancement and environmental responsibility.