US companies face significant hurdles in bidding for Panama container terminal contracts.
The Panama Canal has seen a surge in transshipments, with 6,288 transits recorded in the first half of fiscal 2026.
Maersk's involvement in the market is expected to limit U.S. company participation.
The Panamanian government has seized control of terminals from Hutchison's Panama Ports Co.
A new concessions process is underway, but US companies are not well-equipped to compete.
International operators such as APM Terminals and DP World are favored by Panama's evaluation criteria.
US companies face a similar challenge at the Port of Santos in Brazil.
Maersk has been working behind the scenes to block U.S. companies from entering the Brazilian market.
The selection process is designed to ensure that only qualified operators can secure contracts.
The Panama Canal's selection process is designed to favor international operators with experience and resources.
