Panama Canal marks 26 years under Panamanian administration

Panama Canal Authority (ACP) has commemorated 26 years of Panamanian administration of the Panama Canal, marking another milestone since the historic transfer of the waterway at noon on 31 December 1999.

The anniversary highlights a defining moment for Panama’s sovereignty and national pride, while underscoring the country’s ability to efficiently manage one of the most strategic routes in global trade. More than two decades after the transfer, the Panama Canal remains a cornerstone of national development, delivering tangible benefits to the country’s economy, the well-being of Panamanians, and the global maritime and trading community.

Key milestones under Panamanian management

Over the past 26 years, the ACP has overseen a series of transformative achievements, including:

Canal expansion: The inauguration of the expanded Panama Canal in 2016 reshaped global shipping by allowing the transit of larger vessels and significantly enhancing the route’s competitiveness.
Economic contributions: Since 1999, the Canal Authority has transferred B/. 31.231 billion balboas to Panama’s National Treasury, reaching historic levels that have strengthened the economy and supported social development initiatives.
Strategic investments: In 2025, the ACP presented a roadmap for the next decade, aimed at reinforcing the Canal’s strategic role in global trade. Key initiatives include the Energy Corridor, port enhancements, and systems to safeguard water resources for both public use and Canal operations.
Innovation and sustainability: The Authority has reaffirmed its commitment to sustainability through programs focused on optimizing water use, reducing emissions, and strengthening resilience to climate change.
Watershed and community engagement: The ACP continues to implement multiple programs across the Panama Canal Watershed, prioritizing water resource protection and improving the quality of life for surrounding communities.

Looking ahead, the Panama Canal Authority said it remains firmly committed to Panama’s development, positioning the Canal as a strategic platform serving both national interests and global trade as it enters its next chapter under Panamanian leadership.

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