Barú Marine Terminal: a game-changer for Panama’s Chiriquí region

The Administrator of the Panama Maritime Authority (AMP), Luis Roquebert, participated in the ceremonial launch of the multi-purpose Barú Marine Terminal in Chiriquí province, marking the commencement of construction on this transformative infrastructure project.

With an initial investment of $250 million, the mega-project aims to boost the region’s logistical and port development, significantly impacting the local economy.

“We reaffirm the AMP’s commitment to supporting this port infrastructure initiative, which will positively impact Chiriquí’s economy by enhancing the competitiveness of the agricultural sector, promoting sustainable tourism, and strengthening the country’s maritime connectivity,” emphasised Roquebert.

The AMP Administrator noted that identifying a capable operator for the port’s ongoing development and operational management would be the next critical step to maximizing the terminal’s potential.

“This project is part of the AMP’s strategic plan, focusing on world-class infrastructure and comprehensive services to reinforce Panama’s global standing in the maritime, port, and logistics sectors,” Roquebert added.

The project is built on three key pillars: eco-environmental tourism, agro-industry, and logistics. It is expected to generate over 1,200 direct jobs during construction, 900 jobs during operation, and 600 indirect positions, benefiting more than 10,000 families in Chiriquí’s corregimientos and the district of David.

Ismael González, General Manager of Puerto Barú, highlighted that the project has been in development since 2020 and is set to catalyze the strategic vision for western Panama. He underscored the transformative potential of the terminal, which will elevate David as an international port city.

“David will never be the same once this project is operational. Its proximity to key infrastructure such as the Pan-American Highway, the Gualaca-Chiriquí Grande road, Enrique Malek Airport (just 25 kilometres away), Paso Canoas (80 kilometers), Boquete, Tierras Altas, and the Ngäbe-Buglé Comarca makes the capital of Chiriquí an extraordinary, untapped strategic hub,” said González.

Additionally, the terminal is set to become Panama’s first green port, working closely with certification bodies to achieve full compliance with environmental sustainability standards.

“This project not only positions the region for global competitiveness but also paves the way for a greener, more sustainable future,” González concluded.