The expansion of the Panama Canal was, once again, paralysed Wednesday 23 April by an indefinite strike called nationwide by the main construction union in the country, the Construction Workers National Union (Suntracs), demanding wage increases.

The agreement between Panama Canal Authority (ACP) and Grupo Unidos por el Canal (GUPC) for the completion of the third set of locks has come into force as all required signatures have been gathered.

The Panama Canal Authority (ACP) and Grupo Unidos por el Canal (GUPC) have signed an agreement for the completion of the third set of locks in the expansion project.

The Panama Canal Authority (ACP) announced Thursday that it had closed negotiations with the consortium Grupo Unidos Por el Canal (GUPC) leading to a conceptual agreement subject to documentation, revision and signature by both parties.

The Panama Canal Authority (ACP) and the consortium Grupo Unidos por el Canal (GUPC) have issued separate statements to say that works have resumed Thursday afternoon on the construction sites of the third set of locks.

Works are to restart on the locks for the expanded Panama Canal today although outstanding issues remain between the Panama Canal Authority (ACP) and contractor Grupo Unidos por el Canal (GUPC).

“Serious disagreements” remain between the Panama Canal Authority (ACP) and canal expansion contractors Grupo Unidos por el Canal (GUPC) as expected date of an accord passes.

The Panama Canal Authority (ACP) says progress is being made on negotiations with expansions contractor Grupo Unidos por el Canal (GUPC) over $1.6bn in cost overruns, with an accord expected to be signed by 18 February.

The Panama Canal Authority (ACP) said on Tuesday that talks between representatives of the Canal Authority and the consortium GUPC were continuing, mostly through video conferences.

Panama Canal Authority (ACP) and Grupo Unidos por el Canal (GUPC) officials were meeting over the weekend to examine a counter proposal from ACP.