The Maritime Authority of Panama was established through back on  February 10^th, 1998.  The Maritime Authority of Panama is directed by Fernando Solorzano who was appointed by the President of the Republic and ratified by the National Assembly. 

Among the functions of the Maritime Authority of Panama are the administration, promotion, projection and execution of strategies, norms and plans related to the functioning and development of the maritime sector.

Equally the Maritime Authority of Panama is responsible for the administration of the registering of ships of the country.  In addition the Maritime Authority of Panama proposes and coordinates the development of the National Docks System. The strict compliance of treaties, agreements and international decrees are also enforced by the powers of the Maritime Authority of Panama.

The Maritime Authority of Panama updates the signing system and helps in the navigation for the secure passage of the ships through marine spaces.  The maritime activity represents 20% of the PIB and represents the largest growth in the national economy.  The Maritime Authority also promotes national and foreign investments as well as supporting the development of Panama-Colon Railroad.