1 Valid inspection for the intended operation • Transit inspection: Complete vessel inspection valid for transit, docking and anchorage calls. • Docking inspection: Partial vessel inspection valid for docking and anchorage calls. • Anchorage inspection: Partial vessel inspection valid only for anchorage calls. Panama Canal Authority Vice Presidency for Operations Advisory To Shipping No. A-25-2025 August 15, 2025 TO: All Shipping Agents, Owners, and Operators SUBJECT: Implementation of the Panama Canal’s New Risk-Based Vessel Inspection Model The Panama Canal is pleased to announce the launch of a new risk-based vessel inspection model, effective October 1, 2025. This initiative reflects the Canal’s unwavering commitment to facilitate maritime traffic, while upholding high safety standards, ensuring that vessels benefit from faster and more efficient Canal operations, simplified compliance with international regulations, reduced operational costs, and sustainable inspection practices. Additionally, it enhances transparency and traceability for audits, decreases inspection-related delays, minimizes environmental impact, and allows crews more time for operational readiness—creating a smoother, safer, and more profitable navigation experience. All vessels entering Panama Canal jurisdictional waters will undergo a physical inspection conducted by a canal admeasurer, as currently practiced. This inspection will be valid for one year. After this initial inspection, vessels may qualify for digital inspections on subsequent visits to the Canal, provided the following conditions are met: • The vessel holds a valid inspection for the intended operation 1 . • All visit information requirements are submitted completely and on time. • The Naval Inspection Checklist is fully and timely submitted, reflecting current vessel conditions. • Vessel documentation is up to date in the system. • The vessel's risk level evaluation indicates no high-risk factors. Risk assessment will focus primarily on: • Vessel type • Vessel age • Deficiency history • Flag state • Classification society 3654-A (OP-I) V. 29/03/2023 3654-A (OP-I) V. 29/03/2023 OP, August 15, 2025 Subject: Implementation of the Panama Canal’s New Risk-Based Vessel Inspection Model All required inspection information must be submitted via the Panama Maritime Single Window (VUMPA), through the vessel’s shipping agency. To support a smooth transition, training sessions for agents will be held from September 15-19, 2025. Our Operation Services Office will be reaching out to coordinate participation. A familiarization period will be in effect until December 31 st , 2025. Starting January 1, 2026, it will become mandatory to comply with the required documentation and information. We kindly remind you that, regardless of whether the inspection will be conducted physically or digitally, the pilot transfer arrangements must be fully prepared and operational upon arrival for inspection. Accurate declaration and reporting of information will facilitate all vessel support services, including provisioning, bunkering, crew change and any other port call operation and will reduce waiting times. Additionally, it will significantly minimize the risk of disruption-related charges. Please address any questions or concerns regarding the above information to: operationservices@pancanal.com. ORIGINAL SIGNED Boris Moreno Vásquez Vice President for Operations