APM Terminals Expresses Willingness to Take Over the Operation of Balboa and Cristóbal

Panama: Following the recent announcement by President José Raúl Mulino regarding the future of operations at the Balboa port terminal on the Pacific coast and the Cristóbal port terminal on the Atlantic coast, in light of the Supreme Court ruling, APM Terminals confirmed its willingness to temporarily assume operation of both terminals. This is intended to ensure operational continuity and mitigate potential risks that could affect essential services for regional and global trade once Panama Ports Company SA withdraws. 

In a statement, the company indicated that this potential participation seeks to support Panama’s logistics hub, ensuring the normal operation of the terminals while the future of their management is defined.  APM Terminals, part of the Danish group AP Moller-Maersk, clarified that any revenue to operate the ports will be obtained in strict compliance with all formalities and procedures established by law, and only after the Supreme Court ruling is final, a timeframe that is not dependent on the company. 

The port operator further clarified that it is not involved in the ongoing legal proceedings , nor does it participate in decisions related to the future structure or administration , whether short- or long-term, of the ports of Balboa and Cristóbal. In this regard, it emphasized that all actions will be guided by technical criteria, the integrity of the supply chain, and the public interest. 

APM Terminals emphasized that it operates as an independent port operator, serving the world’s leading shipping lines under principles of non-discrimination, and is committed to developing resilient, efficient, and safe terminals in the communities where it has a presence. The company stated that its operations are governed by internal governance standards, compliance with applicable legislation, and long-term operational sustainability objectives.

The company also highlighted that it applies standardized operating models and proven management systems across its global network, ensuring reliable, productive, and safe operations. APM Terminals currently operates 60 terminals in 34 countries, including several of the world’s best-performing facilities.  As an independent division of the AP Moller–Maersk group, APM Terminals has a track record of over 50 years in the port industry.

In 2024, the company handled more than 27,000 vessels and recorded 23.2 million annual movements at its hub and gateway terminals, supported by a workforce of approximately 33,000 employees, solidifying its position as a global benchmark for efficiency and operational excellence.