As host of this year’s edition, Panama stands at the center of global maritime trade, anchored by the Panama Canal, a strategic chokepoint facilitating roughly 2.5% of global seaborne commerce. The country’s robust multimodal logistics network, including rail, road, and port infrastructure, has proven resilient amid global disruptions, allowing for efficient cargo rerouting across the isthmus. Panama aims to grow its container throughput from 9 to 15 million TEUs over the next decade and scale up rail-based transshipment capacity to 1.7 million TEUs. Major developments are reinforcing this vision: BlackRock and MSC/TiL’s pending acquisition of CK Hutchison Holdings’ port assets (Balboa and Cristóbal), and APM Terminals’ acquisition of the Panama Canal Railway Company (PCRC), strengthening Panama’s intermodal platform. Meanwhile, the Panama Canal Authority is implementing a multibillion-dollar investment strategy which includes new container terminals, and a LPG pipeline supported by the acquisition of 22,000 hectares on the Canal’s west bank. 

Across Central America, a new wave of maritime infrastructure investment is reshaping the region’s role in global supply chains. In Costa Rica, Puerto Caldera is set for a major expansion, led by the Costa Rican Institute of Pacific Ports, with the goal of becoming a regional logistics hub. On the Caribbean coast, APM Terminals Moín is planning a Phase 3 expansion to accommodate New Panamax vessels, significantly boosting capacity.  

In Guatemala, two transformative projects are underway: the $15 billion Interoceanic Corridor (CIG), a private-led multimodal route linking the Pacific and Atlantic, and the modernization of Puerto Quetzal, which includes new quay infrastructure and berths for larger vessels.  

Meanwhile, the Dominican Republic is emerging as a key logistics and nearshoring destination in the Caribbean. Its strategic location, close to U.S. markets and with duty-free access to the U.S. and EU, makes it an attractive platform for regional distribution. Backed by over $500 million in recent public-private investment, the country is strengthening its port infrastructure to solidify its role as a Caribbean logistics hub. With a stable business environment and expanding logistics capabilities, the Dominican Republic is well-positioned to serve as a gateway for manufacturers and global supply chains looking to shorten and secure routes in the Western Hemisphere. 

REPICA 2025 will address key issues such as the modernization of port infrastructure, technological innovation, environmental sustainability, security, risk management, and common challenges faced by the new dynamics of global maritime trade.