Expansion of capacity to move containers and systems improvements are some of the tasks that have been started by port operators in the Atlantic sector, who believe there will be a strong rebound in demand once the expansion of the canal is underway.

The ports of Manzanillo International Terminal, Colon Container Terminal and Cristobal have shown significant growth, product of the favourable economy being experienced by Panama and Latin America.

An article in Prensa.com states: "’as Latin America economies reported good growth, so to has the mobilization of goods been positive’, experts say.

"We believe that Brazil will be our mini China over the next four years, added to that is the expansion of the Canal, which makes us think that the situation will be good," said Carlos Urriola, manager of Manzanillo International Terminal.

"When the economy is good people buy more cars, more buildings and heavy vehicles," he added.

Parallel to the growth of ports, which during the first half was about 30%, the railway has also seen growth in the movement of containers from Balboa to Colon and vice versa.

As part of the logistics system, Urriola believes in including value-added products which will generate new jobs. "

Source: Prensa.com

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