Panama Canal administrator Jorge L Quijano received a delegation from Maersk Line to provide an update focussing on the expansion programme of the Panama Canal and the future trends for the maritime industry.
The update was given within the framework of the Canal’s centennial celebration and informed Maersk executives of the plan to open the new locks for transit at the beginning of 2016.
Topics of strong mutual interest were discussed, such as the efficiency of maritime services, economies of scale and the environment.
The Canal’s fuel-saving shortcut has reduced the maritime carbon footprint for a century, and Maersk believes that Panama’s route is vital for reducing fuel consumption and journey times.
The expanded Canal will also allow the transit of bigger vessels through the waterway, allowing for a more
efficient connectivity, and savings through economies of scale.
Administrator Quijano remarked: “Maersk Line continues to be today one of the main customers of the Panama Canal.”
