CK Hutchison's $11. 7 Billion Gamble: A Test for International Business in Panama Hong Kong based conglomerate CK Hutchison has sparked a major controversy by seeking HK$11. 7 billion (approximately $1.
5 billion) from Panama through international arbitration, raising questions about the future of investment and trade between these two nations.
At its core, this dispute stems from Panama's decision to seize control of two strategic ports at the entrance to the Panama Canal, citing concerns over the constitutionality of a contract with CK Hutchison's subsidiary, Panama Ports Company (PPC).