Panama Canal to expand transit slots in September due to early rainfall

The Panama Canal will increase daily vessel transit slots to 36 from the current 34 starting in September.

This change is due to early rains, allowing authorities to lift restrictions imposed during a recent drought.

Earlier this year, the canal's water levels dropped due to a prolonged drought, leading to a limit on the number of vessels that could pass through.

Operations are returning to normal, with daily transits set to rise to 35 on August 5 and then to 36 in September.

The early arrival of the rainy season has allowed more ships to pass through the canal, which handles around 5% of global maritime trade.

Previously, the Panama Canal Authority had to restrict vessel transits due to drought, but improving conditions are now increasing capacity.

These adjustments signal a recovery for the canal, an essential route for global shipping, after facing weather-related disruptions.

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