Panama's Balboa and Cristóbal Ports Show Recovery Signs After Operational Transition

Panama's Balboa and Cristóbal ports are demonstrating a positive recovery trend in container movements, following a dip observed after the operational transition and change of administration in February 2026. The initial impact of this transition extended through March, marking the lowest activity levels for both terminals.

However, data from April and May reveal a sustained upturn. The port of Balboa, for instance, saw its container movements surge from 153,840 in March to 221,536 in May, a significant 44% increase from its yearly low. Notably, May's volume also exceeded the figures from the same month in 2025 by 1.9%.

The port of Cristóbal exhibited an even more pronounced recovery. After registering 46,408 container movements in March, its volume climbed to 71,096 in May, marking a 53.2% growth from its recent minimum. While the Atlantic terminal's volumes remain below last year's levels, the upward trajectory in April and May suggests a gradual normalization of its operations.

Max Florez, the acting deputy administrator of the Panama Maritime Authority (AMP), stated that this recovery in volumes directly reflects the commitment and capability of Panamanian workers. The AMP notes that while Balboa's recovery is more consolidated, Cristóbal is gaining momentum, signaling favorable conditions for the normalization of port activity at both ends of the Panama Canal. These results are attributed to the progressive stabilization of operations after the state assumed control of the terminals following a Supreme Court ruling concerning the concession held by Panama Ports Company.

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The recovery of volumes is the direct reflection of the commitment and capacity of Panamanian workers.