Panama Canal Plans $2.6 Billion Terminal Bidder Shortlist

The Panama Canal Authority expects to name prequalified bidders by the end of 2026 for concessions to build and operate two new container terminals, after completing its review of initial submissions. Shortlisted companies will receive formal requests for proposals; Maersk and MSC are potential bidders, but neither has been confirmed as prequalified. The Corozal and Telfers terminals are expected to add 5 million to 6 million TEU of annual capacity and attract about $2.6 billion in investment, with concessions potentially awarded in mid-2027 and operations starting in 2030 or 2031. The projects are part of an $8.5 billion effort to expand Panama’s logistics and energy infrastructure, including a proposed liquefied petroleum gas pipeline, while the authority is also planning a third terminal amid tight existing capacity.