Why It Matters

Ocean Pacific Investments’ lobbying could significantly shape the competitive landscape for U.S.-aligned maritime infrastructure in Panama. Congress is intensely focused on countering Chinese influence over the Panama Canal and regional ports, creating a policy environment potentially favorable to U.S.-backed alternatives.

By the Numbers

Ocean Pacific Investments hired TSG Advocates DC LLC on January 1, 2025, marking their first federal lobbying engagement. The engagement covers financial institutions, foreign relations, government issues, and maritime affairs.

The lobbying team consists of three registered lobbyists:

• Edgar Castro brings extensive Latin American and international trade experience, having represented Honduras Prospera Inc. and AECOM Consult Inc. on infrastructure matters.

• Nicholas E. Raineri provides recent Republican congressional access, having served as special adviser to Rep. Byron Donalds (R-FL-19) and chief of staff to Rep. Dan Meuser (R-PA-9).

• Daniel Lincoln Diaz-Balart has extensive international infrastructure experience, including lobbying for AECOM Consult Inc. on Latin American infrastructure projects.

The Agenda

Ocean Pacific Investments is lobbying on federal government relations and U.S.-Panama relations without targeting specific legislation. The company is positioning the Puerto Barú multi-purpose port project in Panama’s Chiriquí province as a strategic, U.S.-aligned infrastructure investment during intense congressional focus on Chinese influence in Panamanian maritime infrastructure.

Broader Context

Congress has made Panama’s maritime infrastructure a top national security priority. The Senate Armed Services Committee identified Chinese control over chokepoints like the Panama Canal as a primary threat to U.S. military readiness, while the Senate Commerce Committee examined the canal’s impact on U.S. trade and security. Multiple resolutions, including S.Res.54 and H.Res.232, call on Panama to terminate Chinese management of key ports.

Between The Lines

The House Homeland Security Subcommittee held hearings on China’s strategic port investments, with witnesses testifying that China effectively controls container terminals at the Port of Balboa and Port of Cristóbal. Legislative activity reflects this urgency: S.Res.31 and H.Res.232 explicitly call on Panama to terminate Chinese management, citing violations of the 1977 Neutrality Treaty.

Key members are driving the conversation. Rep. Carlos Giménez (R-FL) framed the issue as a direct national security threat, while Rep. John Moolenaar (R-MI) issued direct warnings to Panama regarding its relationship with China.

Competitive Landscape

Ocean Pacific Investments enters a competitive field of actors lobbying on maritime infrastructure. SSA Marine Inc., a major U.S.-based terminal operator with significant Panamanian presence, represents the most direct competitor. Other stakeholders include the Cruise Lines International Association and the International Longshore and Warehouse Union.

The Bottom Line

Ocean Pacific Investments has hired experienced lobbyists to navigate a charged policy environment where Panama’s maritime infrastructure sits at the center of U.S.-China strategic competition. commercial merit.