Panama’s Puerto Barú in David Advances to Transform Chiriquí and Boost Panama

For the second time, the Supreme Court of Justice (SCJ), through its Third Chamber for Administrative and Labor Litigation, denied the request for a provisional suspension of Resolution No. DEIA-IA-0003-2024, issued by the Ministry of Environment in favor of the project. This decision reaffirms the legal and technical validity of the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for Puerto Barú in David, and confirms that all the requirements established by Panamanian regulations have been professionally, rigorously, and legally fulfilled. 

The project has received permits from the main state institutions: an EIA approved by more than 12 technical bodies, three complementary environmental feasibility studies, zoning approved by MIVIOT, a concession granted by the Panama Maritime Authority, a Free Trade Zone license approved by MICI, a technical design underway, and municipal permits pending. The process has been transparent, supported by more than 51 communities, academic, and productive organizations that support its development. 

Puerto Barú in David is a 100% private investment with American capital that is part of the logistics plan for the western part of the country. It will reduce logistics costs for local producers, facilitate agroindustrial exports, and boost employment in the region. More than 2,450 direct and indirect jobs will be created, prioritizing Chiriquí labor, in coordination with local businesses, regional authorities, and organized civil society. 

As Panama’s first green port, Puerto Barú in David contemplates zero mangrove deforestation, as required by law, exclusive use of renewable energy, ecological restoration of more than 100 hectares, and active protection of natural areas within the site. It is an infrastructure designed to integrate with its surroundings and contribute to the country’s development through a sustainable approach, connected to the region’s productive vocations.