Bank of America highlights the Panama Canal's independence and financial strength

Posted on 2025-02-14

A Bank of America (BofA) report titled "Strong, Efficient, and Profitable: Who Wouldn't Want to Own the Panama Canal?" highlights the waterway's operational independence, efficiency, and financial resilience.

The document emphasizes that, although the Canal is owned by the Panamanian government, its management by the Panama Canal Authority (ACP) has been key to its development. Since the transfer of control in 1999, the ACP has invested more than US$15 billion in infrastructure, including the US$5.25 billion expansion inaugurated in 2016.

The report also underscores the Canal's commitment to sustainability, highlighting the progress of the Río Indio project to guarantee water supply. It also notes that the ACP maintains a transparent toll system based on vessel type and industry segment.

Financially, the ACP has a higher credit rating than the Panamanian government, and its bonds reflect investor confidence. Furthermore, BofA clarifies that the ACP has no control over port concessions, refuting concerns about possible foreign interference.

In conclusion, the report reaffirms the Canal's operational autonomy and its commitment to transparency, efficiency, and sovereignty.