The Panama Canal and the U.S. Grains & BioProducts Council (USGBC) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to strengthen global trade of U.S. agricultural products. The agreement aims to improve efficiency, reliability, and sustainability of grain shipments through this vital trade route.
Under the MOU, both parties will collaborate on joint market efforts, economic analysis, and trade and logistical data sharing. The partnership supports rising international demand for U.S. grains while promoting operational excellence at the Panama Canal.
Panama Canal Administrator Dr. Ricaurte Vásquez Morales said the MOU reflects the long-standing cooperation and strategic partnership between Panama and the U.S. “We are proud to support sustainable trade and ensure access for U.S. agricultural exports,” he said.
USGBC President Ryan LeGrand emphasized the Canal’s critical role for U.S. agriculture. “The Panama Canal is essential for our industry and global commerce,” he said.
The signing ceremony was attended by U.S. Ambassador to Panama Kevin Marino Cabrera, who highlighted the Canal’s strategic importance for bilateral and global trade.
The Panama Canal handles millions of tons of U.S. agricultural exports each year. In FY 2025, grain traffic totaled about 25.1 million metric tons, alongside container and energy shipments. USGBC representatives also observed operations during a partial lock transit.
