Panama targets maritime competitiveness through digitalization and port studies

Panama is addressing challenges in its maritime and logistics sectors through both digital reform and infrastructure planning. Experts at the Maritime, Logistics, and Port Forum 2026 warned that a digital divide threatens the country's competitiveness. René Gómez, president of the Panama Maritime Chamber, noted that while port terminals possess advanced technology, a lack of integration with public institution systems slows down the logistics chain. He highlighted that moving a container in Panama can take over two hours due to administrative requirements, whereas regional competitors complete similar tasks in 30 to 60 minutes.

In response to infrastructure needs, the Panama Maritime Authority (AMP) has launched a Request for Information (RFI) to gather technical, financial, and commercial data for six port facilities. The project includes studies for sites in Coquira (Panama province), Mensabé and Arenal (Los Santos), Hicaco (Veraguas), and Pedregal and Remedios (Chiriquí). This market exploration aims to optimize state resources and inform future formal bidding processes for topographical, bathymetric, and geological investigations, as well as environmental impact studies.