Panama’s accession to IHO marks major step in international maritime cooperation
The global hydrographic community expanded in January 2026 with Panama’s accession to the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO). As one of the world’s major flag states and a strategic hub for global shipping, Panama’s membership – as the organization’s 104th Member State – is expected to support the further development of hydrographic capacity and standards worldwide, marking an important step in international maritime cooperation.
Panama’s maritime profile is shaped by a coastline stretching roughly 2,950 kilometres along both the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean, combined with an Exclusive Economic Zone of nearly 210,000 square kilometres. The country holds a pivotal position in global trade through its extensive port network and the Panama Canal – the 80km interoceanic corridor linking the Atlantic and Pacific that shortens shipping routes and underpins a significant share of international maritime traffic.
Commenting on the accession, Luigi Sinapi, director of the International Hydrographic Organization, highlighted the strategic importance of the move: “Panama’s accession to the IHO is a significant milestone for the global hydrographic community. As a central hub of international navigation and steward of the Panama Canal, Panama’s full participation will enhance safety of navigation, improve charting quality and strengthen maritime trade resilience. Its active engagement within IHO and regional bodies will deepen cooperation and technical exchange across the region. We look forward to partnering with Panama to advance modern nautical information services and support a safer, more interoperable maritime domain for all.”
As an IHO member, Panama can play a more active role in shaping and implementing international hydrographic standards that support safe navigation, protect lives at sea and promote responsible marine management. The country will also be able to contribute to global ocean mapping initiatives along its two-ocean coastline, including crowd-sourced bathymetry and the Nippon Foundation-GEBCO Seabed 2030 project.
Strengthening capabilities in nautical cartography
Membership provides access to IHO capacity development programmes, supporting the growth of national expertise and strengthening technical capabilities. A key focus will be on enhancing the delivery of high-quality hydrographic and cartographic services, alongside the modernization and standardization of maritime and port charts.
Welcoming the accession, Max Florez-Arias, director general of ports and maritime ancillary industries at the Panama Maritime Authority, highlighted the country’s commitment: “Panama has completed its formal accession to the International Hydrographic Organization, a milestone that underscores the country's strong commitment to maritime safety and environmental protection. As a member of the IHO, Panama will strengthen its capabilities in nautical cartography by adopting and applying high global standards to optimize safe navigation and safeguard human life at sea.”
Panama’s accession comes as the country reinforces its role in ocean and environmental governance. Following its 2022 pledge at the Our Ocean Conference to protect more than half of its national waters – now reflected in 46 marine protected areas (MPAs) – Panama has moved well beyond global conservation targets. These areas support biodiversity and function as important carbon sinks, contributing to the country’s carbon-negative status. As an early ratifier of the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Agreement, Panama’s IHO membership further strengthens the link between hydrography, safe navigation, environmental stewardship and sustainable maritime development.
