Panama Canal: Update on Expanded Waterway Operations

Following the Expanded Panama Canal’s first month of operations, the Panama Canal Administrator Jorge L. Quijano last week presented representatives of shipping lines and shipping agents with an update on the operations of the expanded canal.

“We are very pleased with the first month of activity at the Expanded Canal,” said Mr. Quijano.

“We have the highest esteem for our customers, and we are glad that they have decided to come on board to be part of the newly expanded Canal.”

The Administrator explained to those in attendance that more than 70 vessels have transited since the expanded canal’s opening, with only a minor incident taking place.

During the meeting, customers reiterated their confidence and satisfaction with the levels of safety and service offered by the Panama Canal, and Mr. Quijano echoed the Canal’s commitment to safety and the training of its highly-skilled workforce.

Representatives of shipping lines MOL, Maersk, MSC, Hamburg Sud, Wallenius Wilhelmsen Logistics and China COSCO Shipping were in attendance, as well as shipping agents Wilhemsen Ship Service, Norton Lilly International, Continental Agencies S.A., Hyundai Merchant Marine Co., Unigreen Marine S.A., Boyd Steamship Corporation, Associated Steamship Agents, S.A., and C. B. Fenton.