For the first time in the history of the Panama Canal, a woman has been appointed as administrator.
According to Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino, engineer Ilya Espino de Marotta, who currently serves as Deputy Director General, will assume the role of Administrator of the Panama Canal starting October 1.
The Canal Authority stated that Espino de Marotta was selected through an international selection process. She has more than 40 years of professional experience, including 35 years of service within the Panama Canal organization, and has led major projects such as the canal expansion program.
The appointment comes at a time of increasing cargo traffic through the canal. According to BIMCO, tanker transits via the Panama Canal have risen due to tensions in the Middle East and risks surrounding the Strait of Hormuz.
At present, an average of 38 vessels pass through the canal daily, with the waterway operating close to maximum capacity. Waiting times for ships and transit auction prices have also increased.
The Panama Canal Authority noted that long-term development projects are continuing, including canal expansion initiatives, the construction of new port terminals, and the development of logistics infrastructure.
