Danish group Maersk reaffirms interest in investing in new ports in Panama in 2026

Posted on 2025-10-15

Panama once again captures the attention of one of the world’s logistics giants. The Danish group A.P. Moller-Maersk has expressed its interest in participating in the development of new port terminals in the country, a project that the Panama Canal Authority (ACP) plans to tender in 2026.

During the forum “Logistics in Transformation: Panama’s Strategy to Grow and Innovate”, organized by the Embassies of Denmark and the Netherlands, Maersk’s global CEO Vincent Clerc emphasized that the region faces a significant shortage of port capacity. He noted that Panama has a unique opportunity to strengthen its role as a strategic hub for international maritime trade.

According to José Ramón Icaza Clément, Minister for Canal Affairs, the projects include the construction of two new port terminals — one in Corozal (Pacific) and another in Isla Telfers (Atlantic). Both initiatives are currently in the study and investor engagement phase with potential partners from the logistics and infrastructure sectors.

A Strategic Boost for Panama

Expanding port capacity is essential to maintaining Panama’s competitiveness as a regional logistics hub, especially at a time when global supply chains are seeking greater efficiency and resilience.

The new projects would not only enhance maritime and land connectivity but also generate employment, attract foreign investment, and deepen Panama’s integration into global trade routes.

Moreover, the involvement of an experienced company like Maersk brings credibility, technology, and operational expertise, supporting Panama’s vision of becoming Latin America’s leading logistics center.

Why It Matters

For Panama, these kinds of initiatives are essential to maintain and strengthen its role as a logistics hub in Latin America. As global trade expands and supply chains evolve, port capacity becomes a decisive factor in ensuring competitiveness and growth.

For a company like Maersk, investing in terminals with access to both the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans represents a strategic opportunity to optimize operations along major global shipping routes.

Moreover, the upcoming port tenders offer Panama a valuable opportunity to attract greater investment flows, improve infrastructure, create jobs, and enhance its maritime connectivity — reinforcing the country’s position as a vital link in international trade.