Panama Canal administrator highlights strategic developments to shape the future of logistics

Vásquez spoke about the strategic development of a gas pipeline and the construction of two ports at both ends of the canal. Through these projects, the Panama Canal seeks to strengthen its capacity to deliver efficient, dependable service to its clients while mitigating risks from climate shifts and global uncertainty.

“We are working hard to ensure that environmental and climate conditions do not disrupt operations. But, through these projects, we are also guaranteeing that the Panama Canal remains committed to diversification with investments that provide operational assurance for the industry,” Vásquez said.

Vásquez highlighted the growing market demand that is driving the canal’s gas infrastructure initiatives. The Canal has projected that the volumes of Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG) will double over the next ten years. “Almost everything that comes from the US going to Asia goes through the Panama Canal…. If we do nothing, we’re going to lose that part of the market share. Our long-term vision for the canal includes capturing that growing volume.”

Vásquez also addressed the planned development of two new ports at each end of the Panama Canal. He emphasised that across all initiatives, the Canal will welcome participation from companies capable of delivering meaningful value. That value, he explained, will be defined within the framework of what best serves Panama’s long-term interests. “Decisions are made by the Canal and the board. That distinction is important because it eliminates the possibility of political influences” Vásquez said.

In his closing remarks, Vásquez reiterated the Canal´s commitment to advancing these projects quickly and efficiency. “We are having one-on one meetings with terminal operators and shipping clients probably the first week of December. We are trying to get in the terms of reference in order to do pre-qualification. We are moving fast,” he said.

The HIMC was organised by the Port of Houston and was supported by the International Longshoremen´s Association, Foreign Trade Zone (FTZ) and the OEC Group, and fosters an environment for stakeholders across the supply chain to collaborate and innovate amid a dynamic maritime commercial landscape.

Read the article online at: https://www.drybulkmagazine.com/dry-bulk/07112025/panama-canal-administrator-highlights-strategic-developments-to-shape-the-future-of-logistics/