October 27, 2026
The Panama Canal announced it recorded growth in both vessel transits and tonnage in Fiscal Year 2026, which ran from October 2025 through September 2026. The results underscore the waterway's ability to meet the demand of global maritime trade while continuing to adapt to the effects of El Ni�o.
The Panama Canal handled 13,951 transits in FY2026, up 4.1% from 13,404 in FY2025. Growth was driven by energy shipping segments and strong containership performance.
Tonnage reached 521 million Panama Canal Universal Measurement System (PC/UMS) tons, an increase of 6.5% from 489.2 million PC/UMS tons the previous fiscal year.
Vessels transiting the Neopanamax locks accounted for 52.2% of total tonnage, with tonnage through these locks rising 8.2% year over year. This growth reflects the increasing share of larger-capacity vessels using the waterway.
The results reflect a sustained recovery in demand, supported in part by shifts in international trade flows. The Panama Canal also maintained a maximum draft of 50 feet throughout the dry season, providing favorable operating conditions for its customers.
Source: Panama Canal Authority