Update: 26.02.2026

On 24 February, APM Terminals Panamá confirmed that the stabilisation phase at the Balboa terminal is progressing in line with its established work plan.

The port operator stated that this stage is essential to maintain port functionality with minimal disruption.

As part of this process, Balboa reopened its gate for export and empty container intake on 24 February. The operator communicated that the gate‑in service would remain available until 18:00 on the same day.

It also clarified that import containers were not yet being accepted.

The on-site workforce at both ports, including stevedores and crane operators, remains the same personnel previously employed under CK Hutchison.

At Cristobal, MSC/TIL is still working on the steps required to resume activities. No additional updates have been issued regarding the status of operations at this terminal.

Original article: 24.02.2026

Maersk's APM Terminals and MSC's Terminal Investment Ltd have started an 18‑month interim management period at the Balboa and Cristobal terminals, Panama.

The development came after port operator CK Hutchison reported that it was removed from both sites following a sudden intervention by the Panamanian state.

The transfer of control was initiated after a Supreme Court ruling that voided Panama Ports Co’s long‑standing concessions.

Kuehne+Nagel reports that Panamanian ports remained closed, with no vessel or equipment movements permitted. Further updates are expected as APM Terminals and TIL progress with reactivating operations.

The closures of Balboa on the Pacific side of the Panama Canal and Cristobal on the Atlantic entrance, both of which also act as transhipment hubs, may have a regional impact by disrupting cargo flows across both coasts.

Meanwhile, Maersk announced that its terminal arm has taken charge of the Balboa facility and commenced a stabilisation phase. No announcement was available from MSC at the time of publishing this article.

According to APM Terminals, current work is centred on cargo and terminal inventory, including the condition of goods and the status of containers already in the yard. The company is also carrying out equipment and infrastructure assessments with the Panama Maritime Authority, as well as on‑site safety checks and reviews of operational flow.

System transition remains a key focus, with APM Terminals conducting testing and validation of the new operating platform. The company has advised that container movements may be regulated during this period, with updates to follow as operations advance

For the latest port and vessel statuses or situation updates, please refer to the seaexplorer alert map.