Panama Canal shallow due to El Niño. Fewer vessels will be allowed through
The Panama Canal Authority has decided to reduce the number of vessels that can pass through one of the world's most important waterways. The reason is a lack of rainfall and a decrease in water reserves, linked to El Niño, writes the BBC.
From September 15, 32 vessels per day will be able to pass through the canal instead of the current 36. The new restrictions will begin to be introduced gradually from September 3.
The Panamanian authorities explain the decision by the need to maintain the reliability of the canal's operation and fresh water supplies for the population. Despite the start of the rainy season in Central America and the water-saving measures already taken, the administration considers additional restrictions necessary for the long-term stability of navigation.
The Panama Canal is of great importance for global trade, as it significantly reduces the distance and time of transport between the Atlantic and Pacific oceans. Approximately 14,000 vessels pass through it annually. The canal operates around the clock throughout the year and brings Panama about 3 billion dollars in revenue annually.
This year's problems are linked to El Niño — a periodic increase in the temperature of the surface waters of the Pacific Ocean, which affects weather in various regions of the world. According to forecasts, this year's El Niño could be one of the strongest in recorded history. Its consequences could affect agriculture, food supplies, and the global economy.
A similar situation already occurred in 2023. At that time, due to drought in Panama, the authorities were also forced to limit the number of vessels passing through the canal. After this, the administration took measures that allowed for a reduction in water consumption.
New restrictions emerge against the backdrop of other problems in global shipping. The war with Iran has already led to serious disruptions in transport and a reduction in the number of vessels using the strategically important Strait of Hormuz. Restrictions in the Panama Canal could further increase pressure on global supply chains.
The Panama Canal also has important geopolitical significance. It was built mainly with American funds and officially opened in 1920. For a long time, it remained under US control, but in 1999, full management of the canal was transferred to Panama.
Donald Trump, at the beginning of his second presidential term, announced the possibility of returning the canal under US control. He claimed that China was behind the high tariffs for American vessels and its influence on the canal's infrastructure. Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino denied this, emphasizing that the canal is controlled neither by China, nor by the US, nor by the European Union.
In 2025, under pressure from the US administration, the Hong Kong holding CK Hutchison announced the transfer of a 90% stake in Panama Ports Company to a consortium led by the American investment company BlackRock.
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