According to the announcement, Panama Canal Authority (ACP) has invited leading maritime players to take part in a closed working meeting to discuss potential partnerships for the project. Participants included APM Terminals, COSCO Shipping Ports, CMA Terminals, DP World, PSA International, Terminal Investment Limited, and SSA Marine–Grupo Carrix, as well as representatives from major shipping lines such as Maersk, MSC, CMA CGM, Hapag-Lloyd, HMM, ONE, Evergreen, OOCL, COSCO, Yang Ming, and ZIM.
The talks mark the first step in a structured process that mirrors the one used for the canal’s earlier gas pipeline project. A market and feasibility study will now be undertaken to assess the potential of both terminals, followed by the development of a general project plan.
The selection of a concessionaire will take place in several phases (prequalification, dialogue with shortlisted bidders, and final selection) with completion expected by the fourth quarter of 2026. The Panama Canal Authority says the process will be “transparent and competitive”, and anticipates participation from “leading global companies”.
Expanding capacity as the canal nears operational limits
Under the ACP’s 2025–2035 strategic vision, new container terminals are considered the most critical supporting infrastructure after the locks and navigation channels. The planned developments are designed to boost Panama’s container transshipment capacity by up to 5 million TEUs per year, helping the canal maintain its competitiveness as global trade patterns evolve.
The total investment is estimated at about US$2.6 billion, with the projects expected to generate an economic impact equivalent to 0.4–0.8% of Panama’s GDP. Around 8,100 jobs are expected during construction and 9,000 more once operations begin.
The canal currently operates close to its maximum interoceanic port capacity, a situation that has been intensified by drought-related restrictions and rising global container traffic. Expanding port infrastructure on both coasts is therefore seen as crucial to sustaining Panama’s position as a central hub for transshipment between the Pacific and Atlantic trade routes.
In a statement, the ACP reaffirmed its commitment to “transparency, responsible planning, and sustainable development”, positioning the terminal projects as part of a broader effort to ensure the long-term competitiveness and resilience of Panama’s maritime system.
