On January 22, 2025, Panama's President José Raúl Mulino held discussions with Vincent Clerc, CEO of AP Moller-Maersk, during the World Economic Forum. The focus was on enhancing Panama's logistics, agriculture, and technology sectors.
Clerc expressed a commitment to strengthen Maersk's longstanding relationship with Panama, particularly in modernizing the nation's port infrastructure and promoting sustainability in logistics operations. The discussions included proposals to optimize port processes and implement innovative technologies to boost global trade.
The Panamanian government highlighted that Maersk's global expertise could introduce innovative solutions in port technology and process digitalization, thereby improving supply chain efficiency. Given its strategic location due to the Panama Canal, the country is in constant need of infrastructure modernization, including rail systems, to maintain its global competitiveness.
Maersk operates in 130 countries and handles approximately 35% of Panama's import and export activities. With around 600 employees, the company is one of 185 multinational enterprises established in Panama.
Maersk vessels have been transiting the Panama Canal since 1917, with the first container ship passage occurring in 1975.