The Ministry of Environment (MiAmbiente) approved the Environmental Impact Study, EsIA, category III, of the Puerto Barú Project to develop a multipurpose port complex in the capital of the province of Chiriquí.

This approval validates the long-term vision of the project that will be carried out in phases, over 20 years, at a cost of US$250 million complying with the principles in Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) terms that characterizes a sustainable investment from its planning.

Puerto Barú in David is a 100% private initiative, of American investors and built on private land, and its infrastructure includes the construction of a commercial dock in an area of 500 meters of land and a tourist dock in another 300 meters.

In addition, with a multipurpose concept it is designed to revitalize the economy of the Western region of the country, with sustainability standards and in its construction, the creation of 1,200 direct jobs is expected, while in the operation phase about 1,000 direct jobs will be generated.

This port facility will allow producers and citizens of the Western region to receive inputs and goods, facilitate the export of products grown in the Western region of Panama and the South of Costa Rica and will enhance the attractiveness of the Gulf of Chiriquí as a destination for mini-cruises and yachts.

According to the General Manager of the project, Ismael González, the scope of this initiative contributes to national development, affects the logistical and strategic connection of the country and allows cabotage for domestic and regional trade; in addition to promoting agro-industrial production and sustainable tourism in this productive area.

“The EsIA of the project is the result of four years of research and analysis, under a green logistics model and worked with a policy of total transparency, maintaining an open communication channel that includes the neighboring communities of the project, schools, fishermen, professors and university students, organized workers, local authorities and business guilds, among others,” González said.

It is expected that the first construction work of Puerto Barú in David will begin in the coming months, and the first phase of the project should be ready in two years.