Vehicle Carrier Segment News

The Panama Canal Authority (ACP) met with the Japanese Shipowners Association (JSA) and several car manufacturers in Japan as part of the ongoing discussions with the vehicle carrier segment on the Expansion Program’s progress and future toll structure upon its completion. During the meetings, the Panama Canal provided an update on the Expansion Program and presented the analysis of the results for the potential pricing structure for the car carrier segment taking into account the feedback received recently from this group.

Implementation of new pricing for certain segments moved to October 2012 and October 2013; new tolls said to move Canal's price closer to value of services provided. Following the recommendation from the Board of Directors of the Panama Canal Authority (ACP), the Cabinet Council of the Government of the Republic of Panama approved yesterday the proposal to restructure the Panama Canal’s pricing system. “The new tolls structure was conceived in accordance with the commercial value that the route offers its users. We look forward to working alongside the industry to continue offering a reliable and competitive service,” said Panama Canal Authority Administrator/CEO Alberto Alemán Zubieta. The new tolls were postponed to October 2012 and October 2013, respectively.

The Panama Canal Authority (ACP) held a public hearing in the Ascanio Arosemena Center in Balboa, Panama, on its proposal to modify the Panama Canal pricing structure to align Canal toll charges with the value the route provides. Seven representatives from shipping and government participated in this opportunity to express their views. "Today, Panama Canal customers and members of the maritime industry were welcomed to participate in a transparent and open process," said ACP Administrator/CEO Alberto Alemán Zubieta. Throughout the consultation period (April 20, 2012 – May 21, 2012), the proposal was made available to all interested parties. The ACP received a total of 18 comments, opinions and written requests from interested parties to participate in the public hearing.

Panama Canal proposes tolls adjustments and creates new market segments to reflect real value of the route and better serve its customers.New market segments by vessel type are created and consultation period with interested parties begins. The Panama Canal Authority (ACP) Board of Directors approved a proposal to modify the Panama Canal pricing structure to align Canal toll charges with the value the route provides. The proposal increases the number of segments from eight to eleven by Panama Canal vessel type.