The US is stepping up efforts to curb China’s growing presence in strategic maritime hubs such as Greece’s Piraeus, amid concerns that Beijing’s expanding control over global ports could threaten supply chains and security in times of geopolitical tension.
Greece’s Piraeus in US spotlight
One focal point of US attention is the Port of Piraeus in Greece, a major trade gateway connecting Europe, Africa, and Asia. Chinese shipping giant COSCO, one of the world’s largest port operators, holds a 67 percent stake in the Piraeus Port Authority (OLP).
Washington is concerned that China, through state-owned or state-linked enterprises, has acquired significant influence over critical port infrastructure worldwide. In January, the US Department of Defense placed COSCO on a blacklist of companies with ties to the Chinese military. While this designation does not prohibit US firms from doing business with COSCO, it signals that additional measures could follow.
Sources cited by Reuters indicate that US plans under discussion include boosting American shipbuilding and shipping capacity, encouraging private Western investors to acquire Chinese-held stakes in key ports, and potentially imposing new customs or regulatory restrictions.
US plans for Western investment in Greece’s Piraeus and other ports
The White House is exploring ways to support private US or allied investors in acquiring Chinese stakes in key ports.
Although no specific companies were named, officials highlighted BlackRock’s bid to purchase global port assets from Hong Kong’s CK Hutchison—covering 23 countries, including the Panama Canal—as an example of the type of investment Washington hopes to encourage.
Beyond Greece, US policymakers are also monitoring Chinese port interests in Spain, the Caribbean, and even along the United States’ own western coast.
Mediterranean gateway under review
In March, the US Federal Maritime Commission launched a review of seven maritime chokepoints, aiming to identify regulations or practices that could create unfavorable shipping conditions. Among these was the Strait of Gibraltar, a vital entrance to the Mediterranean.
Spain’s deepening trade relationship with China has raised concerns in Washington about Beijing’s access to Spanish ports. “We are not aware of any alleged concerns or approaches by third parties on this matter,” a Spanish foreign ministry spokesperson said when asked to comment.
Caribbean shipping concerns
The US has also voiced unease over Chinese investments in the Kingston terminal in Jamaica, a major transshipment hub due to its location and deep-water capacity. China Merchants holds a stake in the company operating Kingston’s container terminal, alongside France’s CMA CGM.
Additionally, Chinese metals company JISCO acquired the Alpart alumina refinery in 2016 and owns the nearby Port Kaiser, further cementing China’s presence in Caribbean maritime infrastructure.
Security fears drive policy
Analysts warn that China’s expanding control over port assets worldwide could be used for intelligence gathering, military advantage, or trade network disruptions during crises.
“The US government sees Chinese investments in global ports as a major threat to national security,” said Stuart Poole-Robb, founder of consultancy KCS Group. “The concern is that Beijing could use its control over these assets for espionage, military leverage, or to destabilize supply chains in times of geopolitical conflict.”
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