All videos

Severe drought has cut shipping in the Panama Canal by a third

Traffic has been limited to 24 ships per day. 14 fewer than under normal conditions. The canal is in the grip of the worst drought in its 143-year history. It has already had a significant impact on global trade. The Panama Canal is one of the world’s most important trade routes. It cuts through Panama to connect the Atlantic Ocean with the Pacific Ocean.

Topics:
Supply Chains and TransportationTrade and Investment
Share:
World Economic Forum logo

Forum Stories newsletter

Bringing you weekly curated insights and analysis on the global issues that matter.

Subscribe today

More on Supply Chains and Transportation
See all

How a circular economy could strengthen the clean energy supply chain of the future

Yun B. Choi and Kim Kijune

January 7, 2026

Beyond borders: how new trade and investment corridors are reshaping global business

About us

Engage with us

Quick links

Language editions

Privacy Policy & Terms of Service

Sitemap

© 2026 World Economic Forum