Frequently Asked Questions - Puerto Barú in David

What is Puerto Barú in David?

Puerto Barú is Panama’s first green port and the most important private investment in the history of Chiriquí. It is a multipurpose project that will connect the Western Region with the rest of the country and the world through a sustainable logistics, agribusiness, and tourism model.

It includes a cargo terminal, a tourism terminal for small cruise ships, a logistics park, a production free zone (David Free Zone), a fuel tank area, a marina, and an eco-residential development. Everything will operate with 100% renewable energy and under strict environmental standards.

Puerto Barú in David is not just infrastructure: it is a platform for sustainable regional development that will boost the economy, create jobs, and position Chiriquí as a new logistics and investment hub for Panama and Central America.
What is the total investment for the project?

Puerto Barú represents an estimated U.S. private investment of about 250 million dollars in its first phase.

This stage includes the construction of a dock, container yard, bulk silos, and a specialized liquid cargo area.

It is the largest private investment ever made in Panama’s western region — a project that will strengthen national trade and connectivity, generate jobs, attract new capital, and enhance Panama’s global competitiveness.
Where is the project located?

The Puerto Barú en David project is located in the Corregimiento of Chiriquí, district of David, in the area previously known as Puerto Cabrito or El Cabrito.
How do you currently access the site?

Access to the site is through an existing road. From the Pan-American Highway, take the entrance by the University of Panama’s Faculty of Agricultural Sciences and follow that same road down to the project area.
Why was this site chosen?

After evaluating several alternatives on both coasts of the country, the site selected in David offers the best combination of protected maritime conditions, environmental viability, adequate depth, and strategic access. In addition, this has been a commercial and port area since the 1960s, when it was known as Puerto Cabrito.
When will initial construction work begin?

Since November we began the field operations stage, which includes preparing and improving access roads to the work area. This action is preliminary and necessary to ensure safe and efficient movement of personnel, equipment, and materials.
Why not Puerto Armuelles or Puerto Pedregal?

Puerto Barú will be a multipurpose port that requires a central location to handle the Gulf’s existing tourism demand and cargo primarily from the region, directly from the city of David — the country’s second largest city and third most populated.
What type of cargo will Puerto Barú handle?

Puerto Barú in David is a multipurpose port designed to handle various types of cargo, including dry bulk, liquids, dry and refrigerated containers, as well as roll-on/roll-off cargo — all managed from a central location to optimize handling and transport costs for producers and businesses.
What type of vessels will Puerto Barú receive?

The port will be able to receive vessels up to 230 meters in length (LOA), 35 meters in beam (width), and up to 60,000 deadweight tons (DWT).

These dimensions make it compatible with medium-sized vessels such as Handymax and Handysize ships, commonly used for bulk and general cargo, as well as feeder vessels that move containers on regional routes. The port will also be able to receive barges, which are ideal for roll-on/roll-off cargo and short-distance or coastal logistics.
Who are the investors behind Puerto Barú?

Puerto Barú is a 100% privately funded project backed by U.S. capital and led by the development firm Ocean Pacific Investments (OPI).

OPI is headed by John McKeown as CEO and Main Principal, a Los Angeles native with an extensive track record in the real estate and logistics sectors. He is joined by Scott Kalt, Main Principal and President at OPI, and co-founder of the renowned California law firm Elkins Kalt, specializing in corporate law and investment structuring.
What is the State’s role in the project?

Puerto Barú is a 100% private investment project, developed on privately owned land titled since the 1960s.
The Panamanian State does not participate as a partner or investor, but it plays a key role as regulator, ensuring that the port is developed in compliance with all national legal, technical, and environmental requirements.
How long will it take to build the port?

Construction of the project’s first phase — which includes the pier, container yard, bulk cargo silos, and liquid cargo area — is projected to be completed within 24 months once works begin.
The second stage includes the development of the David Free Zone and the project’s tourism area, which will advance progressively based on demand and the maturity of the local economic ecosystem.
How long has Puerto Barú been in Panama?

Planning for Puerto Barú began in 2017, and by 2020 the investment was formalized and government approval processes were underway.
Why is it called Puerto Barú en David?

The name Puerto Barú pays tribute to the Barú Volcano, which can be clearly seen from the port development site, and is the highest point and one of the most emblematic symbols of Panama. Just as the volcano is an icon in the province’s landscape, we aim for the port to become a reference for sustainable and logistics-driven development in the region.

Although the port will be located in the district of Chiriquí, and not in the district of Barú, we use “Puerto Barú en David” to clarify its location.
How can I work at Puerto Barú en David?

During field operations, there may be temporary or technical job opportunities related to the project. All applications must be submitted exclusively through the official site empleospuertobaru.com
How can I register to become a supplier?

Supplier selection will be handled by the contractor and by the private companies that build and operate the port. Although this will not be a public bidding process, there may be competitive private processes.

At this time we do not have a supplier registration portal enabled; however, an announcement will be made in the coming months describing how this process will work.
What services will Puerto Barú offer to shipping lines and exporters?

The port will offer integrated services for loading and unloading, a container yard, bulk silos, a liquid terminal, a Fuel Free Zone, on-site customs operations, and logistics solutions to optimize international trade. In addition, it will include the David Free Zone, a logistics and value-added park with storage and cold chain for perishable products.
How will port security be managed?

Puerto Barú will operate under the International Ship and Port Facility Security Code (ISPS Code), with controlled access systems, 24/7 video surveillance, patrol, perimeter monitoring, and physical and digital security protocols to protect cargo and operations.
Will there be services for cruise passengers or maritime tourism activities?

Yes. The project includes a tourism area with a dock dedicated to small cruise ships and mega yachts. In a second phase, services will be offered for recreational and tourism activities that will drive the region’s economic development.
Where will the navigation channel run?

Maritime access will include private pilotage and a navigation channel with an operating draft of -11 meters, 31 km in length and 100 m in width. The project is located in a natural estuary that requires a marine access route so that vessels can reach the land polygon, starting from open sea, passing through Boca Brava and Isla Muertos, and then arriving at the Chiriquí Nuevo River.
Does the project have an approved Environmental Impact Study?

Yes. On January 16, 2024, the Ministry of Environment issued a decision in favor of the Category III Environmental Impact Study (EIS) for the Puerto Barú Project through Resolution DEIA-IA-0003-2024. This EIS also included approval from more than 12 public institutions, a citizen consultation process, and three environmental viability licenses.
What government permits have already been obtained?
The development of the project requires various environmental, maritime, and urban permits.
To date, the project has already obtained the main required authorizations:
- Three Environmental Viability Licenses – Ministry of Environment
- Category III Environmental Impact Study – Ministry of Environment
- Two Maritime Concessions – Panama Maritime Authority
- Port Concession – Panama Maritime Authority
- Marina Concession – Panama Maritime Authority
- Territorial Planning and Zoning Scheme – Ministry of Housing and Territorial Planning
What other government permits are required for the project?

In addition to the permits already obtained, we currently have technical designs in progress and municipal permits under review for the start of field work.
Which international standards does Puerto Barú comply with?
Puerto Barú has been designed to comply with the main international standards and regulations in the maritime and port sector, including:
- IFC Standards – For the development of sustainable projects as regulated by the World Bank in environmental matters.
- International Maritime Organization (IMO) – Safety and environmental protection rules for navigation.
- ISPS Code – International standards for port facility security.
- MARPOL Convention – Regulations to prevent marine pollution.
What social contribution programs does Puerto Barú have in the community?

Puerto Barú’s mission is to contribute throughout every project phase to the region’s comprehensive development by working hand in hand with communities, universities, associations, research centers, and local organizations.

To date, we’ve formalized partnerships with universities, grassroots organizations, and research centers.

We directly support initiatives focused on education, access to water and sanitation, employability, and environmental conservation.
Does the project have a foundation?

Yes. Through Fundación Nuevas Rutas, we work closely with schools in Chiriquí to strengthen education and child nutrition.For more information, visit fundacionnuevasrutas.org and follow us on Instagram @fundacionnuevasrutas.
How has citizen participation been included in the project?

From the beginning, and throughout the entire consultation and information process, we have actively promoted citizen participation.

In 2023, we held a Public Consultation with more than 1,000 attendees, and throughout the project’s development we have received public support from over 50 organizations.
What partnerships ensure citizen participation and sustainability?

In addition to alliances with several universities in Chiriquí for sustainable initiatives, we work with the Center for Research, Training and Entrepreneurship (CIFEm) to strengthen public participation in research and training programs focused on sustainable management of ecosystems near the port.

For more information, visit cifepanama.org or follow @cifem.pa on Instagram.
What participation mechanisms will there be in future phases?

Seminars, information sessions, courses, forums, and site visits will be organized to maintain open dialogue with key stakeholders.

These spaces — held periodically — will address project perceptions, regulations, and relevant topics for workers, communities, NGOs, associations, cooperatives, and government entities.
Will there be community participation in environmental conservation?

Yes. Together with nearby communities, we will create an Early Warning Network to help protect wetlands, mangroves, and coastal ecosystems.

Local residents will also take part in citizen science initiatives and join reforestation efforts led by Puerto Barú.
How will community questions and concerns be managed?

We’ll have a dedicated Sustainability Department to listen and respond to community questions, ensuring open, transparent, and ongoing communication.

For any inquiries or comments, contact us at info@puertobaru.com.
How will the project affect the mangroves?

Puerto Barú in David will be Panama’s first green port, designed to operate under high environmental standards. Within the 124.6 hectares of private land where the project will be developed, there are no mangroves, and by law the project cannot affect mangroves.

We have a baseline study to determine the condition of the ecosystem prior to the project proposal, and as part of the Management Plan we commit to conservation and monitoring of ecosystems to maintain existing conditions. This includes guaranteeing forest cover and maintaining water and soil quality (preventing contamination).
What mitigation and conservation plans are in place to protect nearby ecosystems?

As part of our Environmental Impact Study, approved through Resolution DEIA-UA-0003-2024 of January 16, 2024, by the Ministry of Environment, the project is required to submit semi-annual environmental audit reports to the government to ensure that all neighboring ecosystems are being preserved.

Additionally, as part of our environmental initiatives, we have allocated around 30% of our total land area to protection and conservation zones. These areas include the creation of an ecological corridor, buffer zones, a botanical garden, and conservation forest, reaffirming our commitment to responsible development and respect for ecosystems.

In addition, the project is committed to planting 100 hectares of new forest on land outside the project as an environmental buffer. Finally, we are also evaluating the possibility of planting 200 hectares of new mangroves in the area.
How will solid waste, domestic wastewater, and other waste be managed?

Puerto Barú will have a solid waste treatment plant for handling and pre-treatment (dehydration and volume reduction) of domestic waste, which will then be managed by the Municipality of David.

In addition, two wastewater treatment plants will be installed that comply with all COPANIT regulations. In the case of industrial or hazardous waste, each third party or future operator must implement its own treatment system in accordance with current regulations.
What will be the port’s energy sources?

Puerto Barú will operate with 100% renewable energy, one of the key sustainability criteria that aligns it with green infrastructure standards. All supply will come from solar parks located in the province of Chiriquí, which will sell their energy directly to the port. This energy will be complemented by on-site solar panels.
Where will the project’s drinking water come from?

Drinking water will come from a private reserve using deep wells, ensuring that nearby communities’ water supplies are not affected.
How will dredging be carried out in Puerto Barú’s navigation channel?

Dredging in the channel will extract sand, silt, and clay using a suction dredge (a non-invasive procedure) that will operate in controlled cycles: 1 time every 8 hours, with 16 hours of rest.

The navigation channel, which is 31 km long, already has mostly natural depths that allow vessel passage, so dredging will only take place in 6 kilometers, or approximately 20% of the channel. In terms of total channel area, only 4% will require dredging.
How long will dredging take?

Construction dredging will last 18 months, since it is carried out slowly in order to minimize environmental impact.
How will mangroves be protected during dredging?

According to our mitigation plan in the Environmental Impact Study, approved by Panamanian authorities, suction dredging will be carried out along the edges of the navigation channel, always maintaining a minimum distance of 50 meters from mangroves, and operating once every 8 hours in controlled cycles. Designated disposal areas with proper oxygenation will also be used, avoiding sensitive zones.
Where will the dredged material be placed?

The dredged material — composed of sand, silt, and clay — will be deposited in a designated area of about 280 hectares. Each discharge cycle lasts roughly 15 minutes. This area contains no marine vegetation or species and has a rocky seabed located midway along the Puerto Barú navigation channel, within the same ecosystem.
Will the project take place in or near a protected area?

Puerto Barú in David is being developed on 100% private, titled land, outside of protected areas. We are near a mangrove ecosystem, which is found along the Chiriquí coast. By law, mangroves are protected, and within our Environmental Management Plan we commit to their conservation and monitoring.
Do whales or dolphins travel through the port area?

Whales remain in the open waters of the Gulf of Chiriquí, near Coiba, and do not enter the estuary or the Bahía de Muertos. Bottlenose dolphins are only found at the canal entrance, where vessel traffic will be limited.

It is important to note that the Puerto Barú navigation channel is already an area with considerable marine traffic from fishing and tourism vessels, and there have been no recorded impacts on dolphins. Likewise, in open waters there are no records of whale impacts from traffic moving through Coiba and Puerto Armuelles.
What will be done to protect cetaceans (whales and dolphins)?

We will use the navigation routes already established by the International Maritime Organization, the Whaling Commission, and the Panama Maritime Authority, created to protect these species. In addition, vessels will navigate slowly (max. 6 knots), use only 10% of the navigation channel’s width, and operate four hours per day to minimize noise and wake.
Which Green Port certifications is Puerto Barú seeking to obtain?

Puerto Barú has been conceived from its design stage as Panama’s first green port. Our goal is to comply with the highest international environmental standards and to incorporate, from design through construction and operation, the criteria required to obtain internationally recognized certifications such as Green Port.

These certifications cover key areas such as the use of 100% renewable energy, responsible water and waste management, protection of marine and coastal ecosystems, emissions control, and safe and sustainable port operations.
How many jobs will the project generate?

With an estimated investment of $250 million, Puerto Barú is expected to generate more than 1,200 direct jobs during its operational phase — including 650 in the commercial terminal and 300 in the tourism area.
In addition, over 500 indirect jobs will be created, with a strong commitment to prioritizing local workers from the province of Chiriquí.
How will the port benefit producers and exporters in Chiriquí and the western region of Panama?

It will reduce costs and travel times by offering a nearby multipurpose port specialized in refrigerated, bulk, and liquid cargo, boosting competitiveness and opening new export routes and markets.
What logistics savings does Puerto Barú offer compared to other ports in the country?

By being located in Chiriquí, the port represents up to 70% savings in overland transport costs, avoiding the need to move cargo to distant ports on the Atlantic or central Pacific. This significantly reduces costs and transit times for exporters in the west and optimizes maritime routes.
How will Puerto Barú and the David Free Zone help reduce operating costs along the logistics chain?

Through the David Free Zone, the port will integrate warehousing, consolidation, and logistics services in a single location, avoiding additional transfers and simplifying operations. This translates into lower costs for exporters and importers, in addition to fiscal incentives.
How will Puerto Barú help in times of crisis and ensure security for the western region?

Puerto Barú will help guarantee the flow of food, essential products, and fuel even during road closures or accidents on current routes. The port will also have the capacity to supply fuel to the region for up to one month, compared to the current 3-day buffer.
How will the project impact tourism in the area?

On average, the tourism terminal is expected to receive more than 40,000 nautical visitors per year, including mega yachts and small cruise ships, with an annual estimated contribution of 18 million dollars.