Why Is the Panama Canal Getting Expensive Again?

The canal is open. But using it is getting more expensive.

Ships are still moving through Panama.

But the economics are getting tighter.

MSC will add $100 per TEU on Asia–US cargo via Panama as of today.

Hapag-Lloyd, Maersk and CMA CGM also introduced Panama-related surcharges.

At the same time, ships are facing lower draft limits.

Transit slots are also getting much more expensive.

So what is driving the cost higher?

And how much could reach cargo owners?

Here are 5️⃣ signals behind it:

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1️⃣ Ships can carry less cargo

Neopanamax ships normally have a max draft of 50 feet.