Panama Canal holds open forum to discuss expanded Canal services with shipping industry representatives
As a part of its commitment to maintaining an open dialogue with its customers, the Panama Canal Authority (ACP) hosted its second Open Forum on Tuesday, offering the shipping industry an opportunity to discuss the Expanded Panama Canal’s operations to-date as well as the various other services offered at the waterway.
Shipping line representatives and agents, as well as members of Panama’s maritime and logistics sector participated in the forum titled, “The Logistic Hub Path: Tackling Future Challenges.”
“The forum allows an open exchange of ideas and conversation with our valued customers so that we can answer their questions, while receiving feedback that enables us to improve our services,” said ACP Executive Vice President of Operations Esteban Saenz.
The ACP’s Marine Traffic and Measurement Manager Abraham Saied, Operation Analyst Cesar Lau, and Processes and Client Liaison Officer Marcia Ortega presented on the performance of the Canal’s Neopanamax and Panamax locks, its vessel booking system, enhancements currently underway to accommodate future demand, and current and future resources available for Panama Canal operation. Ana Reyes, the government of Panama’s Logistics Cabinet Coordinator joined as a special guest to discuss the country’s action plan for further developing itself as a global logistics hub.
After the presentations, participants asked questions to Canal executives, offering ideas to help the waterway continue to provide world-class maritime services.
In addition, attendees visited Cocoli Locks, where they were able to see the Expanded Canal in operation.
