Did the Panama authorities allow US vessels to transit the canal without tolls or fees?

The Panama Canal Authority has categorically denied assertions made by the U.S. State Department that the country had agreed to allow U.S. government vessels to transit the canal without paying tolls or fees.

The rebuttal comes amid heightened tensions following President Donald Trump’s renewed calls for U.S. control over the crucial waterway.

Panama Canal Authority Denies U.S. Claims

In a social media post on X (formerly Twitter) Wednesday evening, the U.S. State Department stated that the Panamanian government had agreed to waive all transit fees for U.S. vessels, a move that would allegedly save Washington millions of dollars annually.


However, within hours, the Panama Canal Authority (ACP) issued a firm response, disputing the claim and reiterating its exclusive authority over toll regulations.

The ACP emphasized that no changes had been made to existing toll structures and clarified that it has only engaged in preliminary discussions with U.S. officials regarding the passage of American warships, as per a report by Forbes.

Rubio’s Visit to Panama and U.S. Concerns Over China

The dispute follows a visit by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio to Panama earlier this week.

During his trip, Rubio met with President José Raúl Mulino and ACP Administrator Ricaurte Vásquez, where he conveyed Washington’s concerns over Chinese influence in the Panama Canal zone.

According to the State Department, Rubio stressed that Trump views Beijing’s growing role in the region as a direct threat to U.S. security and global trade.

He further warned that if the status quo persists, the United States would be forced to take action to safeguard its interests under the 1977 Treaty of Neutrality.

During his visit to the Miraflores locks, Rubio reportedly expressed dissatisfaction over what he termed “unacceptable” Chinese involvement in the canal’s operations.

Trump’s Stance on the Panama Canal

President Donald Trump has repeatedly criticized Panama’s control over the strategic waterway, arguing that former President Jimmy Carter’s decision to transfer authority in 1999 was a mistake.

In December, Trump lashed out against the “exorbitant” toll rates imposed by the ACP, insisting that the U.S. should retake control of the canal if Panama does not adjust its pricing policies.

Trump has also claimed, without evidence, that China has significant operational control over the canal, a claim that Panama has consistently rejected.

Since returning to office last month, Trump has escalated his rhetoric, stating he would not rule out military or economic measures to ensure continued U.S. access.

China Reacts to U.S. Allegations

China, which has invested in infrastructure projects across Latin America, strongly dismissed U.S. accusations regarding its influence over the Panama Canal.

During a press briefing on Wednesday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian condemned the “irresponsible remarks” made by U.S. officials, insisting that China does not control the waterway and that Washington’s allegations were meant to undermine Beijing’s partnerships in the region.

Panama Stands Firm Amid Diplomatic Tensions

Despite mounting pressure from Washington, Panama’s government has reaffirmed its sovereignty over the canal.

In response to U.S. concerns, President Mulino has assured the Trump administration that Panama will not renew its 2017 agreement with China under the Belt and Road Initiative.

However, Panama maintains that external influences will not dictate its policies, and any decision regarding Panama Canal tolls and governance will remain under national jurisdiction.

FAQs

1. Did Panama agree to waive transit fees for U.S. vessels?

No, the Panama Canal Authority (ACP) has denied claims by the U.S. State Department that Panama agreed to allow U.S. government vessels to transit the canal without paying tolls or fees

2. Has the U.S. threatened action over the Panama Canal?

Since returning to office, Trump has suggested that the U.S. may consider military or economic measures to secure continued access to the canal if Panama does not comply with American demands.