The ICS delegation visited the Panama Canal Authority, ( PCA ) on 18 January 2024 at their headquarters.

The meeting proved to be a crucial forum for addressing ongoing concerns in the shipping industry. The discussions covered various aspects including measures taken in response to the extended dry season as well as the ACP’s plans for future canal pricing strategies. The ICS delegation also presented key industry priorities for 2024 and delved into issues such as the disruption charges and the non-portable pilot device policy. The meeting report is attached, at Annex A, provides a detailed account of these discussions and outcomes.

Next Steps

The meeting concluded with a commitment to ongoing collaboration, recognising the importance of regular and effective communication for future changes in management and pricing structures. The prospect of creating an ICS/ACP Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was discussed, indicating a desire to formalise and strengthen dialogue between the two entities.

Members are invited to express their comments on the prospect of creating an MoU with the ACP to, Meme Lamlum,Secretary, Canals Sub Committee. (meme.lamlum@ics-shipping.org)

CAN(24)02 -Annex A – Panama Canal Delegation Meeting Report – 18 January 2024