The outlook for Panamanian ships in Chinese ports shows a sharp reduction in detentions for inspections, following talks between authorities from both countries. According to statistics from the Tokyo MOU, the detention of Panamanian-flagged vessels in mainland Chinese ports dropped from 140 cases in May to 16 during July, representing a significant decrease in the controls that were putting pressure on the national merchant fleet. Records indicate that the percentage of inspections that resulted in arrests also showed a gradual decline: it stood at 21% in March, rose to 35% in April, and reached 37% in May.
It then dropped to 25% in June and reached 10% in July. The reduction comes as Panama and China advance in talks related to the renewal of the Maritime Transport Agreement, with the aim of maintaining a smoother relationship in port and shipping matters. The Panamanian government indicated that it maintains a positive outlook on the treatment conditions for ships flying the national flag, one of the most important merchant fleets in the world, and highlighted the decrease in inspections that end in detentions. Authorities expect this trend will allow for greater efficiency in port procedures and better conditions for Panamanian maritime operations in Chinese territory.
