Panama Canal expands advance transit reservations to Panamax locks for 2027 dry season

The Panama Canal Authority is extending its long-term booking system to the Panamax locks, a first, allowing shippers to secure transit slots months ahead for the 2027 dry season. This follows recent drought-driven restrictions and aims to improve scheduling certainty for carriers. The move signals a structural shift in canal operations to manage water scarcity and could influence shipping costs and trade flows through the corridor.