No, China does not operate the Panama Canal. The canal is managed solely by the Panama Canal Authority (ACP), a Panamanian government agency, since its transfer from U.S. control on December 31, 1999.
However, Chinese companies have a presence in the region. Notably, Hutchison Whampoa, a Hong Kong-based firm, operates ports at both the Atlantic and Pacific ends of the canal.
Despite this, the operation and administration of the canal remain under Panamanian authority.
Recent statements by U.S. President Donald Trump suggesting that China controls the canal have been met with firm denials from both Panama and China. Panama’s President José Raúl Mulino emphasized that the canal is part of the country’s “inalienable patrimony” and will continue to be managed responsibly by Panama.
China has also stated that it does not interfere in Panama’s management of the canal.