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US-China rivalry: How Panama got caught up

September 15, 2025

The Panama Canal is at the center of the US-China rivalry in Latin America. Under President Donald Trump, the US has increased pressure on Panama to counter growing Chinese influence. With what result?

https://p.dw.com/p/50VGp

Panama’s canal is more than a global trade artery — it’s a geopolitical flashpoint. As China deepens its economic footprint and the U.S. reasserts its influence, Panama finds itself at the center of a growing power struggle. In this episode, we explore how the canal’s strategic value is reshaping alliances, reviving old tensions, and forcing Panama to navigate between two global giants. 

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Do you find it hard to steer through a complex world – mired in border disputes, land conflicts and wars over resources? You’re not alone. Let’s explore all things geopolitical together and chart possible solutions.