Strong traffic growth and recovered water levels helped FY 2025 revenue reach $5.7 billion after disruptions in 2024 due to drought.
The Panama Canal Administration announced on Wednesday that it transferred $2.965 billion to Panama's National Treasury. This amount includes surplus revenues from operations, transit fees, and public service payments for the fiscal year 2025.
The ceremony took place at the Fleet and Equipment Administration and Maintenance Division in Colón Province, where President José Raúl Mulino received the contribution from ten canal employees representing the workforce.
This total includes $2.372 billion from economic surplus generated by canal operations and $591 million from transit fees. This followed the approval of the financial statements for the year ending September 30, 2025. An additional $2 million accounts for public services provided by the state.
The strong financial results came after the canal recovered from the drought that limited operations the previous year. Water levels in the lakes have normalized, allowing the canal to maintain a 50-foot draft throughout the year, even during the dry season.
In FY 2025, the average daily number of transits was 33 vessels, compared to just 27 the previous year, which was affected by a strong El Niño. The fiscal year results showed total revenues increased by about 14.4% to $5.7 billion, according to preliminary figures released in October. The number of vessel transits also increased by 19.3% year-on-year to 13,404 over the 12-month period.
Growth in revenue was driven mainly by the container and liquefied petroleum gas segments, although bulk carrier traffic continued to recover. However, liquefied natural gas volumes did not meet expectations due to conditions in the global freight market.
“This contribution showcases the commitment of thousands of workers who, through their daily efforts, ensure the efficient and safe operations of the canal,” said an official statement.
President Mulino praised the canal workforce for their performance throughout a challenging year, stating, “This demonstrates once again the ability of Panamanians to face and overcome complex challenges, including those brought on by climate change.”
The ceremony included a tour of the dry dock facilities where the canal’s industrial equipment is maintained. Notable attendees included Minister for Canal Affairs José Ramón Icaza, Minister of Economy Felipe Chapman, Canal Administrator Ricaurte Vásquez Morales, and Deputy Administrator Ilya Espino de Marotta.
This transfer marked the first time such a ceremony occurred in Colón Province, with the ACP reaffirming that this contribution is a reflection of “the work and dedication of its employees to Panama's overall development.”