Panama ensures operational continuity at strategic ports by appointing APM Terminals as temporary administrator
The Panama Maritime Authority informs the nation and the international community that, following the Supreme Court of Justice’s ruling declaring the concession granted to Panama Ports Company unconstitutional, the Panamanian State has activated a technical operational transition plan aimed at ensuring the continuity of port activities at the ports of Cristóbal (Atlantic) and Balboa (Pacific). Accordingly, the essential services that support the global logistics chain will continue to operate without disruption.
In compliance with the applicable legal processes, the Government of the Republic of Panama will, in due course, rely on the specialised support of APM Terminals as a temporary administrator during a transition period. APM Terminals is among the world’s most trusted port operators, making it a suitable choice to assume this responsibility, says the Authority.
As the owner of the ports, Panama guarantees the uninterrupted operation of the national port system. Activities are proceeding normally, without interruptions, and continue to deliver optimal levels of productivity, efficiency, and service quality for shipping lines and their customers.
The Panama Maritime Authority also reiterate the President of the Republic’s stated intention to move forward with an orderly and coordinated transition alongside Panama Ports Company, a subsidiary of the multinational conglomerate CK Hutchison Holdings, an organisation with a global presence and a strong reputation for corporate responsibility. In this context, we trust in its constructive cooperation throughout this phase, for the benefit of stability across the port system.
The Panama Maritime Authority reaffirms its commitment to safeguarding the national interest, ensuring the continuity of international trade, upholding the rule of law, and strengthening the confidence of shipping lines, investors, and commercial partners worldwide. Panama will continue to be a reliable, stable, and strategic partner for global supply chains, maintaining its essential role as a key hub for international trade.
Prior the announcement, APM Terminals had issued a statement emphasising that any operational entry to the terminal will be carried out in full accordance with all legal requirements and procedures established by the law. This can only take place once Panama’s Supreme Court of Justice ruling becomes final and binding, a timeline that is outside the company’s control.
The company points out it is not involved in the ongoing legal proceedings and bears no role in decisions regarding the short- or long-term structure or future administration of Balboa and Cristobal terminals.
Any action to be taken by APM Terminals will be guided by technical criteria, supply chain integrity, and the public interest, it says, pointing out that APM Terminals is an independent terminal operator serving the world’s biggest shipping lines globally and is committed to operate and develop resilient terminals for the nations and communities where the company operates. All actions are guided exclusively by internal governance standards, applicable legal requirements, and long-term operational sustainability objectives, with a clear focus on resilience, efficiency, and responsible management.
APM Terminals says it applies standardised operating models and proven management systems across its network, ensuring reliable, productive, and safe operations. The company operates 60 terminals in 34 countries, including several of the world’s top-performing facilities, and provides service on a non-discriminatory basis to all shipping lines and customers.