Operating licences for fuel barge supply operations returns in Panama

The Panama Maritime Authority (PMA) on Wednesday (8 October) has officially rescinded Resolution ADM No. 224-2019 of 4 October 2019, which restricted the marketing and sale of fuels, lubricants, and petroleum derivatives through floating equipment, including barges.

On 7 October, PMA Administrator Luis Roquebert signed Resolution ADM No. 125-2025, reinstating the process for granting new operating licences for fuel transport and supply services carried out by floating equipment.

“With this measure, the PMA aims to bring greater transparency to the licensing process for this maritime activity and boost competition within a market that thrives on Panama’s strategic geographic position and the operation of the Panama Canal—an essential route for hundreds of vessels engaged in international trade, generating strong demand for bunkering services in Panamanian waters,” PMA said on its website. 

“The new resolution allows companies interested in offering fuel supply services to submit new licence applications or vessel inclusion requests to the General Directorate of Ports and Auxiliary Maritime Industries, in line with established procedures and under strict compliance with current regulations.”

Through this action, the PMA reaffirms its commitment to strengthening Panama’s maritime sector, promoting economic growth through efficient auxiliary maritime services and a competitive, forward-looking market aligned with the National Maritime Strategy.

Photo credit: Panama Maritime Authority
Published: 17 October, 2025