The Panama Canal Administration says it delivered $2.965bn to Panama’s National Treasury on Wednesday, representing surplus revenues from operations, transit tonnage fees, and public service payments.
The ceremony took place at the fleet and equipment administration and maintenance division facilities in Colón Province, where the President José Raúl Mulino was presented with the contributions to the state by ten canal employees who represented the canal workforce.
Following the approval of the administration’s financial statements for the fiscal year from October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2025, the board of directors declared $2.372bn as the economic surplus from canal operations, in addition to $591m corresponding to transit tonnage fees.
Among these direct contributions, $2m accounted for public services provided by the state.
These contributions reflect the interoceanic waterway’s performance during FY2025, marked by a return to normal lake levels, which allowed for a draft of 50 feet to be maintained even during the dry season.
As a result, the average number of daily transits reached 33, compared to 27 recorded during the previous year, which was impacted by the El Niño phenomenon.
President José Raúl Mulino congratulated the Panama Canal workforce for their performance throughout a year marked by significant challenges.
He said it demonstrated, once again, Panamanians’ ability to face and overcome complex challenges including those that arise from climate change.
Attendees at the event included the minister for canal affairs José Ramón Icaza; the minister of economy Felipe Chapman; the canal administrator Ricaurte Vásquez Morales; and the deputy administrator of the canal Ilya Espino de Marotta, among other guests.
The event included a tour of the dry dock facilities where the canal’s industrial equipment is maintained.
“This contribution reflects the dedication of thousands of workers who, through their daily efforts, ensure the efficient and safe operations of the canal,” according to the official statement.
With this transfer of funds, the Panama Canal Administration reaffirmed that the contribution to the country was the result of “the work and commitment of its employees to contribute to Panama’s comprehensive development.”
