The Panama Maritime Authority (PMA) has lifted previous restrictions on the licencing of barge-based bunker fuel supply operations, allowing new entrants into the country’s key bunkering market.
The PMA has officially repealed Resolution ADM No. 224-2019, which had restricted the marketing and sale of bunker fuels, lubricants, and petroleum derivatives through floating equipment such as barges.
Under the newly signed Resolution ADM No. 125-2025, issued on October 7 by PMA Administrator Luis Roquebert, the authority will resume issuing new operating licences for fuel transport and supply services carried out by floating units.
The measure aims to bring greater transparency to the licencing process, boost competition, and support Panama’s position as a leading bunkering centre serving vessels transiting the Panama Canal.
Companies interested in providing fuel supply services can now submit new licence applications or vessel inclusion requests to the General Directorate of Ports and Auxiliary Maritime Industries, in accordance with existing regulations.
Through this move, the PMA said it reaffirms its commitment to strengthening Panama’s maritime sector and promoting economic growth through efficient auxiliary services aligned with the National Maritime Strategy.
