Increased demand and global trade changes have led to rising transit costs through the Panama Canal. Companies are paying up to 4 million dollars to have priority for crossing.

The Panama Canal has become a luxury route for oil tankers, with an increased number of ships and rising transit costs. Recently, a ship carrying liquefied natural gas paid 4 million dollars to avoid a five-day wait. Usually, the crossing cost is between 300,000 and 400,000 dollars. The Canal Authority reported an average of 34 ships per day in January, rising to 37 in March. This trend is influenced by tensions in the Middle East, which affect trade routes. Companies can participate in auctions to obtain a faster crossing slot, and the amounts paid have increased significantly, reaching record values. The canal, which connects the Atlantic Ocean to the Pacific, is essential for global trade, but it cannot completely replace the Strait of Hormuz for oil transport. Analysts warn that rates could continue to rise due to regional instability and the price of oil, which has exceeded 107 dollars per barrel.