LNG import terminal planned for Panama Canal

The United States Trade and Development Agency (USTDA) has awarded a grant to the Panama Canal Authority (ACP) to support the planning of an LNG import terminal. 

According to a USTDA statement, when the Panama Canal expansion project is completed next year, the canal is expected to handle significant LNG tanker traffic, and in order to capitalise on this growth, the ACP is interested in developing LNG-related infrastructure projects, including an import terminal.

“The US government is very pleased to partner with the Panama Canal Authority through this USTDA grant as the ACP looks to develop an LNG import terminal in the coming years to take advantage of the Canal expansion project,” said chargé d’affaires Kevin O’Reilly who signed the grant agreement along with ACP Administrator/CEO Jorge L Quijano.

The USTDA-funded feasibility study would help the ACP set strategic priorities and plan projects related to LNG infrastructure and natural gas utilisation at the Panama Canal. The LNG terminal is anticipated to support the implementation of maritime- and energy-related projects that will accommodate increased shipping traffic through the expanded Canal.