The ports of Balboa and Cristóbal are beginning to show encouraging signs of recovery following the downturn recorded in February 2026, when the government assumed control of both terminals after a ruling by the Supreme Court of Justice affected the concession held by former operator Panama Ports Company.
Although the impact extended into March, when both ports reached their lowest activity levels, data from April and May indicate a clear upward trend. Balboa increased from 153,840 container movements in March to 221,536 in May, representing a 44.0% rebound from its lowest point. Furthermore, May 2026 volumes exceeded those recorded in May 2025 by 1.9%.
Cristóbal has also posted significant gains. After declining to 46,408 container movements in March, the port recovered to 71,096 in May, reflecting a 53.2% increase from its recent low. While volumes remain below last year’s levels, the performance recorded in April and May points to a steady and gradual recovery.
“The recovery in cargo volumes is a direct reflection of the commitment, professionalism, and capability of Panamanian workers,” said Max Florez, Acting Deputy Administrator of the Panama Maritime Authority (PMA).
Balboa is already demonstrating a more advanced stage of recovery, while Cristóbal continues to gain momentum, providing positive signs for the normalization of operations at both ends of the Panama Canal.
