Panama continues to strengthen its role as a maritime, logistics, and investment hub in Latin America. In 2026, the Panama Maritime Authority (AMP) announced that a major Japanese shipping group plans to transform the Puerto Armuelles Multipurpose Pier into a naval maintenance center for over 500 vessels.
This milestone opens new opportunities for foreign investment, regional development, job creation, and specialized tourism in western Panama, especially in Chiriquí.
Located in the Barú District, Chiriquí Province, the Puerto Armuelles Multipurpose Pier has reached 63% completion, positioning itself as one of Panama’s priority port infrastructure projects.
The project is part of Panama’s national strategy to:
Diversify port infrastructure across the country
Expand high value-added maritime services
Strengthen Panama’s logistics competitiveness
Decentralize investment beyond Panama City
According to official information from the Government of Panama, this initiative forms part of a long-term maritime and logistics development vision.
More details are available on the official government portal:
👉 https://www.gob.pa
The potential establishment of a large-scale naval maintenance center positions Puerto Armuelles as a new strategic destination for international investment, particularly for companies involved in:
Maritime services and fleet maintenance
Regional logistics and maritime transportation
Port infrastructure and industrial zones
Technical training and specialized services
The interest shown by a Japanese shipping group reinforces global confidence in Panama as a country with legal stability, strong international connectivity and proven expertise in the maritime sector, supported by decades of leadership in port and logistics operations.
Additional information on Panama’s maritime framework can be found at the Panama Maritime Authority (AMP):
👉 https://www.amp.gob.pa
Beyond its industrial and logistics impact, Puerto Armuelles offers a highly attractive environment for tourism, real estate development and coastal lifestyle projects, thanks to:
Its Pacific Ocean coastline
Proximity to the Costa Rica border
Access to beaches, nature and eco-tourism routes
A favorable climate year-round
The development of the pier may boost maritime tourism and attract international crews, executives and industry-related visitors, increasing demand for:
Hotels and accommodation
Restaurants and hospitality services
Transportation, retail and local experiences
This growth positions Puerto Armuelles as a region with strong tourism and real estate investment potential in Chiriquí.
The development of the Puerto Armuelles Multipurpose Pier confirms that Panama continues to grow beyond the capital, creating new opportunities to live, work and invest in regions like Chiriquí, while strengthening its position as an international maritime hub.
For those seeking a different lifestyle or new opportunities outside the city, Puerto Armuelles is emerging as an area with strong potential. At Reside Panama, we share real and useful information to help you make informed decisions about living in Panama.