Maritime Industry Briefing: Panama Canal Draft Restrictions, Port Digitalisation, and Green Equipment Investments

## Panama Canal Tightens Neopanamax Draft Limits The Panama Canal Authority (ACP) has announced a two-stage reduction in the maximum authorised draft for vessels transiting the Neopanamax locks, citing an assessment of current and projected water levels in Gatun Lake. According to Port Technology, the first restriction takes effect from 26 August 2026, when the permitted draft will be lowered to 48 feet. The move underscores the continued vulnerability of the canal to hydrological conditions, a concern that drew significant global attention during the severe drought-related restrictions of 2023–2024. For shipping lines operating large containerships, LNG carriers, and bulk vessels through the expanded locks, the revised limits may necessitate cargo adjustments or load planning changes to maintain transit eligibility. Operators are advised to review voyage planning well in advance of the August implementation date. --- ## Klaipėda Container Terminal Expands Portchain Partnership Klaipėda Container Terminal (KCT) in Lithuania is deepening its digital transformation with the adoption of Portchain Quay, a berth planning platform, according to Port Technology. The deployment follows KCT's earlier implementation of Portchain Connect, and will provide terminal planners with a shared, real-time planning environment designed to improve coordination between vessel scheduling and berth operations. The move reflects a broader industry trend towards integrated digital tools that connect port communities and reduce inefficiencies caused by fragmented communication. By layering Portchain Quay onto its existing Portchain Connect infrastructure, KCT is building a more cohesive digital ecosystem — a model increasingly adopted by terminals seeking to improve vessel turnaround times and resource utilisation. --- ## Thessaloniki Takes Delivery of Eight Hybrid Straddle Carriers The Port of Thessaloniki has taken delivery of eight new hybrid diesel-electric straddle carriers as part of a broader modernisation programme at its container terminal, Port Technology reports. Operator ThPA S.A. confirmed the machines are being commissioned in parallel with the ongoing Pier 6 expansion project. The investment signals Thessaloniki's commitment to reducing the carbon footprint of its terminal operations while simultaneously expanding capacity. Hybrid straddle carriers offer meaningful fuel savings and emissions reductions compared to conventional diesel units, aligning with European port sustainability targets. The timing alongside the Pier 6 development suggests the port is positioning itself for increased throughput with a cleaner operational profile — a combination that will be closely watched by other Mediterranean terminal operators navigating similar infrastructure and decarbonisation pressures.