Latest news in Panama? September 3rd, 2026

Key developments and top news stories reported in Panama as of September 3, 2026:

• State Takes Full Control of Cross-Country Oil Pipeline: The government of Panama officially completed the acquisition of Petroterminal de Panamá, taking 100% ownership after purchasing the remaining 41% stake for $191.7 million. The 131 km pipeline system connects the Pacific terminal at Charco Azul with the Caribbean terminal at Chiriquí Grande, functioning as an alternative corridor to the canal for crude oil and petroleum transport. Splash247+ 1
• Panama Canal Transit Reductions Take Effect: Beginning today, September 3, the Panama Canal Authority enacted new operational restrictions lowering daily vessel transits. Daily booking capacity is reduced to 34 ships (9 Neopanamax and 25 Panamax slots) due to lower-than-anticipated watershed rainfall and dry spells linked to El Niño patterns. Further reductions to 32 daily transits are scheduled for mid-September. AgroLatam+ 1
• Judicial and Political Developments: Legal proceedings involving high-profile political figures remain in focus, including pre-trial hearings scheduled for former Vice President José Gabriel Carrizo regarding allegations of unjustified enrichment. Newsroom Panama
• Healthcare and Social Security Tensions: Public debates continue regarding healthcare fee structures and appointment backlogs within the Social Security Fund (Caja de Seguro Social – CSS), sparking calls from medical professionals and retirees for regulatory reviews.