Potential Global Trade Shake-Up: Trump Threatens Reclaiming Panama Canal

Former President Donald Trump recently made headlines with his provocative comments about reclaiming U.S. control over the Panama Canal, a move that could have significant implications for global trade, including the swine industry. In a statement shared during a Christmas address, Trump criticized the fees imposed by Panama for canal usage, describing them as “ridiculously high” and detrimental to international commerce. He further asserted that if these charges are not renegotiated, his administration would pursue measures to bring the canal back under U.S. authority. Panama’s Firm Response Panama’s leadership, led by President José Raúl Mulino, has firmly rejected Trump’s proposal. Mulino emphasized that the canal is a national asset and dismissed any possibility of renegotiation. The Panama Canal Authority, which oversees its operations, insists that the fees are market-driven and essential for maintaining infrastructure. Implications for the Swine Industry The Panama Canal is a