COLON

• PAONX
• Latitude: 9.37535
• Longitude: -79.8871
• East Coast Central America
• Port in Panama

Location: Panama

Port of Colón (Port of Manzanillo) - Panama

Overview: The Port of Colón, also known as the Port of Manzanillo, is one of the major ports in Panama. It is strategically located at the entrance of the Panama Canal on the Caribbean Sea. This port plays a critical role in global shipping and logistics, acting as a key transshipment hub in the Americas due to its prime location connecting the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans.

Location:

• Coordinates: Approximately 9°21′N 79°54′W
• Proximity: Near the city of Colón, at the northern entrance of the Panama Canal

Key Facilities and Infrastructure:

1. Container Terminals:

   • The Port of Colón includes several modern container terminals equipped to handle the growing demands of global trade.
   • Major terminals include the Manzanillo International Terminal (MIT) and the Colon Container Terminal (CCT).

2. Berthing Facilities:

   • Capable of accommodating Panamax and post-Panamax vessels.
   • Multiple deepwater berths, with depths typically ranging from 12 to 18 meters (39 to 59 feet).

3. Cargo Handling Equipment:

   • High-capacity cranes, including ship-to-shore gantry cranes, rubber-tired gantry cranes (RTGs), and other specialized handling equipment.
   • Advanced logistic facilities for efficient cargo movement.

4. Storage:

   • Extensive yard storage area for containers and bulk cargo.
   • Facilities for refrigerated cargo (reefers) and other specialized storage requirements.

5. Logistic Services:

   • Comprehensive range of logistic services including warehousing, distribution, and supply chain management.
   • Presence of customs facilities and expedited processing for transshipments.

Capabilities:

• Transshipment Hub: The port is a vital transshipment center, facilitating the redistribution of cargo between the Pacific and the Atlantic Oceans.
• Customs and Free Zone: Encompasses the Colón Free Trade Zone, the world’s second-largest free trade zone, providing tax benefits and significant logistic advantages.
• Connectivity: Well-connected with rail, road, and canal linkages enhancing its strategic importance in global and regional trade.

Port Services:

• Bunkering: Fuel services available for vessels.
• Ship Repair and Maintenance: Facilities for ship repair, maintenance, and dry docking.
• Pilotage and Towage: Mandatory pilotage for vessels navigating through the canal and towage services for maneuvering within the port.

Recent Developments:

• Continuous upgrades and expansion projects to increase capacity and enhance operational efficiency.
• Implementation of advanced IT systems for better port management and tracking.

Notable Advantages:

• Strategic Location: Its position at the Panama Canal's threshold offers unparalleled global connectivity.
• State-of-the-Art Facilities: Modern infrastructure equipped to handle diverse cargo types efficiently.
• Economic Impact: Significant contributor to Panama's economy and a focal point of the country's logistics and maritime sectors.

Challenges:

• Congestion and Competition: Periodic congestion issues and competition from other regional ports necessitate ongoing improvements and expansions.
• Environmental Concerns: Balancing growth with sustainable practices to minimize environmental impacts.

The Port of Colón remains a cornerstone of Panama's maritime infrastructure, continuing to adapt and grow in response to global trade demands and technological advancements.