Numerous analyses have been put forward offering differing impact scenarios arising from the Panama Canal expansion, according to a release from events’ organisers, TOC Worldwide.
Most project substantially-greater volumes of container cargo entering the Gulf of Mexico and Caribbean trades.
From next April, container vessels of up to 13 000 TEU will be able to navigate the Canal, more than doubling the current 5 000 TEU limit. The potential impact on the US East Coast has been well documented. A recent analysis by Boston Consulting Group and CH Robinson suggests that up to 10% of container traffic to the US from East Asia could shift from West Coast to East Coast ports by 2020, following the Panama Canal expansion.
In 2014, about 35% of container traffic from East Asia to the US arrived at East Coast ports. But according to the report, current growth trends would push that share to 40% by 2020 even without the canal’s expansion. With that expansion coming, the East Coast’s share could reach 50% - a 10% increase in market share.
The 15th edition of TOC Americas, taking place in Panama from October 13-15, will scrutinise the ability of ports to cope with these greater volumes and vessel sizes, and assess likely cargo flow patterns in the wake of Canal expansion, hearing views from a line-up of senior port and shipping industry executives from across North and Latin America.
