Panama Canal Sees Rise in Vessel Transits and Tonnage
The Panama Canal has recorded a significant rise in vessel transits and tonnage in the first half of its 2026 fiscal year, with demand for its reservation system climbing sharply amid heightened global trade activity.
Key Statistics
- 6,288 transits were recorded between October 2025 and March 2026, 224 more than in the same period a year earlier.
- Daily averages hit 34 vessels in January and climbed to 37 in March, with peak days recently exceeding 40 transits.
Container shipping and liquefied petroleum gas have been the standout performers, with energy products playing an increasingly significant role in overall volumes.
Auction Slot Prices Jump
Auction slot prices have jumped by 180% since the war began, with certain vessels paying more than $1m to secure a crossing. However, this reflects temporary spikes in demand rather than structural pricing shifts.