The Panama Canal will launch a weekly “NetZero Slot” this November, reserving priority transit for dual-fuel vessels capable of operating on low-carbon fuels such as ammonia, methanol, bio-LNG, and bio-LPG. While vessels will not be required to use these fuels immediately, the Canal will recognise owners that have invested in future-ready capacity.

Commitment to sustainability
According to the Deputy Administrator, the initiative is “an unequivocal signal of our commitment to sustainability and the competitiveness of global trade.” Ships awarded the slot will benefit from guaranteed 24-hour passage and greater scheduling flexibility. This development highlights the growing importance of dual-fuel readiness. EMF is positioned to contribute to shipping’s decarbonisation pathway while maintaining competitiveness in a changing regulatory landscape with ammonia-retrofit ready engines included in our newbuild portfolio.