CK Hutchison says ‘forced termination’ of Panama ports cut 1% off throughput
Hong Kong-based CK Hutchison Holdings has revealed the “forced termination” of operations at two strategic Panama Canal ports shaved 1 per cent off overall throughput in the first half of this year, even as the overall port portfolio performed better than a year ago. In its half-year financial results released on Thursday, the Li Ka-shing family-backed conglomerate for the first time quantified…
Hong Kong-based CK Hutchison Holdings reported that the termination of operations at two Panama Canal ports resulted in a 1% decrease in overall throughput during the first half of 2026. Despite this setback, the conglomerate's net profit from recurring operations grew by 7% to HK$12.58 billion. Excluding Panama, throughput increased by 3% year on year, driven by terminals in Asia.
CK Hutchison attributed the revenue growth to an 8% increase in storage income from Oman and Pakistan, which balanced the 1% reduction in throughput due to the Panama operations. The conglomerate also noted a slight benefit from the Middle East conflict, despite disruptions to shipments via the Strait of Hormuz. Despite the Panama port loss, the port business performed well, with earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation, and amortisation rising by 4% and port revenue increasing by 4%.
However, the company remained cautious about the Middle East situation and potential tariff increases, which could impact global trade.
Written by urgent.news from South China Morning Post - Hong Kong's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
This story
This is one outlet's version. Read the fullest account.
