The Panama Maritime Authority (AMP), through the Directorate General of Merchant Marine (DGMM), has intensified its efforts to optimize its fleet through a purification process that excludes from the registration those vessels that do not meet the required standards.

This strategy has allowed Panama to reaffirm its commitment to excellence and sustainability, positioning itself prominently in the latest report of the World Fleet Monitor of Clarksons Research, in which the country remains a global leader by flagging 15% of the tonnage of the world merchant fleet.

According to the general director of the DGMM, the entity has maintained a policy of zero tolerance for any attempt at misuse of the Panamanian registry and is not a refuge for the evasion of sanctions.

“Our priority is to attract young and newly built ships, which comply with international regulations,” Franco said.

DGMM data reflect a net growth of 468 vessels in 2024, consolidating Panama as the largest merchant fleet in the world.

According to the international platform IHS Markit, the country closed the year with 8,773 ships and a total of 248.8 million Gross Registration Tonnage (TRB).

In line with its modernization and sustainability strategy, 408 newly built warehouses were registered in 2024, representing more than 9.4 million TRB.

This growth responds to the exclusive benefits offered by the Panamanian flag to the maritime industry, which continues to position it as an attractive option for shipowners and operators globally.