The Panama Canal has started consultations with the maritime industry to explore developing port terminals on both the Atlantic and Pacific sides.
The process follows a similar approach used for the gas pipeline project. Representatives from container port operators and shipping lines were invited to join. Attendance was by invitation only, in line with institutional rules.
Participants included APM Terminals, Cosco Shipping Ports, CMA Terminals–CMA, DP World, Hanseatic Global Terminals, MOL, PSA International, SSA Marine–Grupo Carrix, Terminal Investment Limited, and major shipping lines such as CMA CGM, ONE, Evergreen, Hapag Lloyd, HMM, Maersk, MSC, OOCL, COSCO, Yang Ming, ZIM, and the Port of Houston.
Next Steps
A market and feasibility study will be conducted for both terminals. Based on its findings, a general project plan will be developed. This will lead to a special process to select a concessionaire.
The selection process will include:
-
A prequalification phase
-
Interaction and dialogue with prequalified participants
-
Final concessionaire selection
The final phase is expected to conclude in Q4 2026. The process will be transparent and competitive, attracting leading global companies.
Port Development Initiatives
Container terminals are key components of the Panama Canal’s 2025–2035 strategic vision, second only to the locks and navigation channels. The development will expand capacity and maintain Panama’s competitiveness.
The project estimates an investment of B/.2.6 million for both terminals. It could impact 0.4–0.8% of Panama’s GDP. Construction is expected to generate 8,100 jobs, and operations around 9,000 jobs.
The goal is to increase transshipment capacity by 5 million TEUs per year, strengthen Panama’s role as a global intermodal hub, and expand port capacity near its current limits.
The Panama Canal remains committed to sustainable, fair, and resilient growth, supporting global trade and economic development for Panama and the world.
