The Panama Canal has updated the criteria for reassigning slots that are canceled or become available during reservation periods 1A and 2 for the Neopanamax locks. The measure, communicated through an advisory to shipping companies, is effective immediately and reverts the allocation scheme to the criteria in force before July 2026.

Available slots during these periods will be offered through a special allocation process, following this order of priority: containerships, liquefied natural gas (LNG) vessels, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) vessels, and vehicle carriers or RoRo vessels. Within each segment, Transit TEU Allowance (TTA) capacity will be used as the primary tie-breaking criterion, where applicable.

NetZero

The Canal, through the same advisory, updated the requirements for vessels transiting the interoceanic waterway for the first time to qualify for NetZero program slots, an initiative that seeks to continue supporting and encouraging investments in low-carbon and energy-efficient vessels.

Vessels must undergo a preliminary tonnage inspection conducted by the Panama Canal Tonnage Unit. As part of the update, this assessment may be carried out outside of Panama, thus streamlining the participation process in the program.

Starting November 1, 2026, owners, operators, or authorized agents may request this assessment before the vessel's arrival in the interoceanic waterway's waters. This will allow the Canal to have advance information to calculate tolls, determine the vessel's tonnage according to the Panama Canal Universal Measurement System (CP/SUAB), identify the engine type, among other requirements for inclusion in NetZero.

The interested party must submit the corresponding technical documentation, cover the applicable fees and charges, and make the necessary arrangements at the port where the vessel is located. The preliminary inspection will not replace the final verification or any other review that may be required before transit.

With these measures, the Panama Canal promotes the incorporation of low-emission and more energy-efficient vessels, while maintaining clear and predictable criteria for allocating transit capacity.

Full provisions can be consulted in Advisory to Shipping No. A-40-2026.