Panama Secheresse Causes 29% Drop in Maritime Traffic Through Canal

Tuesday, 15 October 2024, 10:00

Panama's secheresse has led to a dramatic 29% reduction in maritime traffic through the canal. This decline highlights the critical impact of climate conditions on Panama's vital shipping routes.

La-croix — Panama Secheresse Causes 29% Drop in Maritime Traffic Through Canal

Impact of Secheresse on Panama Canal Traffic

In the last fiscal year, the traffic of ships transiting through the Panama Canal saw a significant drop of 29%, attributed primarily to secheresse.

Details on Maritime Traffic Decline

9,944 ships transited the canal from October 1, 2023, to September 30, 2024.
This figure marks a drastic decline from 14,080 ships in the previous year.
Overall cargo tonnage fell to 423 million tons, down 17% from 511 million tons.

Responses to Ongoing Secheresse

The ACP implemented measures at the end of 2023 to address dwindling water levels due to persistent secheresse. Currently, daily ship passages have decreased from 38 to 22, though conditions have improved recently with the onset of the rainy season.

Future Projections for Canal Revenues

The ACP forecasts record revenues of $5.623 billion for 2025, with expectations of approximately 13,900 ships and 520 million tons of cargo transit through the canal.

This article was prepared using information from open sources in accordance with the principles of Ethical Policy. The editorial team is not responsible for absolute accuracy, as it relies on data from the sources referenced.