Panama Canal Forced to Reduce Capacity Due to Drought
Low Water Levels in Gatún Lake Lead to Decrease in Shipping Traffic

Global trade routes are currently facing unexpected challenges as the Panama Canal is forced to reduce its capacity due to persistent low water levels and extreme drought conditions. This phenomenon has far-reaching effects on global shipping traffic, as the canal is one of the most crucial waterways for international trade.
The administration of the Panama Canal recently announced that the number of daily ship transits must be significantly reduced. This measure is a direct response to the falling water levels of Gatún Lake, which is essential for the operation of the canal. Gatún Lake, situated 28 meters above sea level and serving as a crucial component of the canal's lock system, has reached a historically low water level this year. Experts note that such a level has never been recorded at this time of year.
The drought in the region is unprecedented, and precipitation levels have reached a historically low point for the first time in decades. Against this backdrop, gradual adjustments must be made to maintain shipping traffic. From the current 30 daily transits, the number will be reduced to 18 by next February.
These restrictions not only affect the number of transits but also the maximum size and draft of the ships that can use the canal. The Panama Canal, which connects the Atlantic with the Pacific Ocean, is of vital importance for the transportation of goods between Asia and the United States, as well as for the faster transport of U.S. products to Asia and the South American Pacific coast. Although its significance for the German economy is less than that of the Suez Canal, its role in global trade is undisputed.
This phenomenon is yet another example of how climate change is affecting global trade. In addition to droughts that affect not only the Rhine but other significant waterways, increasing storms and rising sea levels pose challenges to the shipping industry. Given that approximately 90 percent of global goods traffic is handled by ship, the impacts of such climatic changes are not to be underestimated.
