PSA Panama Launches Advanced Container Scanner and Inspection Area to Boost Trade Security

PSA Panama has inaugurated a state-of-the-art fixed container scanner and a new physical cargo inspection area at UNITEC, marking a key milestone in its Master Plan to elevate service standards to a world-class level. These advanced facilities are designed to enhance Panama’s capacity to prevent and combat illicit activities in international trade, including drug trafficking and smuggling, while strengthening trust in the country’s logistics ecosystem through collaboration between public and private sectors.

The newly inaugurated projects are part of a structured, ongoing investment program that combines infrastructure upgrades, technology deployment, process digitization, and operational excellence standards. Alongside the scanner and inspection area, PSA Panama is modernizing employee facilities, including new lockers, restrooms, rest areas, a physiotherapy-focused gym, and healthy eating zones, reflecting a holistic approach where operational efficiency and workforce well-being are integrated.

The inauguration event saw participation from key officials, including Soraya Valdivieso, Director General of the National Customs Authority; Luis Antonio De Gracia, Director General of the National Aeronaval Service; government representatives, security agencies, industry partners, clients, and PSA Panama’s leadership team.

Safety and Competitiveness at the Core

Soraya Valdivieso highlighted that secure trade underpins Panama’s competitiveness, stating that the new capabilities strengthen the national control system and reinforce Panama as a trusted logistics hub for global trade. Enrique Piqueras, General Manager of PSA Panama, emphasized that the projects are the first visible results of a structured transformation program aimed at improving infrastructure, technology, processes, and employee well-being to enhance reliability and trust in Panamanian logistics services.

Long-Term Investment and Growth

Enno Koll, Regional CEO of PSA Americas, reaffirmed the company’s ongoing investment commitment. Since PSA Panama began operations in December 2010, the terminal’s capacity has grown from 450,000 TEUs annually to nearly 2 million TEUs, aligned with regional trade growth and the Panama Canal expansion. The company has invested over US$700 million to date, demonstrating a long-term vision for connectivity, efficiency, and operational excellence.

The new scanner and inspection facilities mark the beginning of a broader transformation program, which will continue to enhance processes, technology, and human capabilities. PSA Panama remains committed to positioning Panama as a world-class logistics hub, emphasizing safety, technology, process efficiency, and talent development as core pillars of its strategy.

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