During a Senate Committee on Commerce, Science & Transportation hearing, Senator Ted Cruz expressed worries about China's growing influence on the Panama Canal, citing potential risks to U.S. national security. Cruz highlighted concerns about Chinese companies' involvement in building a bridge across the canal and controlling container ports at both ends, giving China the ability to block the canal and observe activities. He emphasized the need to address these risks promptly.
Senator Cruz also pointed out the high transit fees for the canal, which disproportionately affect Americans due to the significant amount of U.S. cargo passing through. He mentioned that U.S. Navy vessels incur additional fees, contributing to the canal's profits exceeding $3 billion annually. Cruz raised the issue of American taxpayers and consumers bearing the financial burden through increased costs for goods.
