CNSS has learned that as lake water levels recover, the Panama Canal will increase its daily ship transits from 33 to 34 starting November 12. This move is a response to increased rainfall and favorable hydrological forecasts.

Previously, the canal added one reservation slot for "Super" category vessels in the Panamax locks, raising the daily quota for this class from 18 to 19.

Since November 9, the waterway has restored the maximum vessel draft to 15.24 meters. These conditions have allowed the canal to gradually expand operations and enhance its transit capacity for international shipping.

Currently, the total transit capacity stands at 24 slots for Panamax locks and 10 slots for Neopanamax locks, available through the regular booking system depending on the date.

The additional slots will be offered through the canal's regular booking system. For booking dates from November 12 to 17, 2026, the slots will be available via Slot Auction (Auction Period). For November 18 to 23, they will be offered through the Special Competition Period. For November 24 onwards, the capacity will be available during the regular opening of the Second Competition Period.

In the previous fiscal year, the Panama Canal recorded nearly 14,000 transits, moving 521 million tons of cargo and generating $6.6 billion in revenue.