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China Denies Increased Vessel Inspections Amid Panama Dispute

3/28/2026

Summary

Story summary

China denied on March 27, 2026, that it increased inspections of Panama-flag vessels after Panama canceled port concessions.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian said the United States fabricated claims to control the Panama Canal.
The U.S. Federal Maritime Commission warned that China's inspections exceeded historical norms, as Panama's January 2026 Supreme Court ruling led to a port takeover and the appointment of U.S.-linked interim operators.

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Story summary

China denied on March 27, 2026, that it increased inspections of Panama-flag vessels after Panama canceled port concessions.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian said the United States fabricated claims to control the Panama Canal.
The U.S. Federal Maritime Commission warned that China's inspections exceeded historical norms, as Panama's January 2026 Supreme Court ruling led to a port takeover and the appointment of U.S.-linked interim operators.