His solid experience in the maritime and port sectors has established him as a benchmark in this important field that drives global trade while demanding constant innovation and solutions to remain competitive.

Eduardo Lugo has held various positions related to logistics activities — working for cargo owners, logistics service providers, and as a representative for Latin America and the Caribbean at the Port of Long Beach. He has also served in the public sector at the Panama Canal Authority, where he played an active role in strategic projects such as the restructuring of the toll system and policy, market studies for the Canal’s expansion, and several special projects.

Through these experiences, he understands the importance of intermodal integration, the adoption of digital technologies and innovation, and the need for public–private collaboration to strengthen competitiveness in the logistics, maritime, and port sectors. On these and other topics, we spoke with this expert with extensive knowledge of the industry.

How would you describe the evolution of the logistics and port industry and its current challenges?

The logistics and port industry has evolved from manual operations to a highly digitalized and globalized model, now facing key challenges such as sustainability, crisis resilience, and the increasing complexity of supply chains — all of which demand greater technological and operational integration.

Factors such as geopolitics, armed conflicts, economic fluctuations, and policy shifts — including those from the current U.S. administration — directly impact the sector, influencing investments and trade flows. Furthermore, horizontal and vertical integration continues to drive strategic movements, while trends like nearshoring and friendshoring are gaining relevance in the region. However, the rise of protectionist policies in the U.S. introduces uncertainty, presenting risks and challenges for Latin American countries.

What are some of the most significant projects you’ve led and their impact?

We have led key projects such as optimizing intermodal routes, conducting feasibility studies for port infrastructure, and developing API-based models to enhance connectivity, reduce logistics costs, and improve trade competitiveness.

Notable examples include market studies for the ports of Chancay (Peru) and Moín (Costa Rica); Puerto Antioquia (Colombia); trade facilitation and infrastructure policies in Peru; initiatives like the Global Logistics Hub (Jamaica); feasibility studies for logistics parks in Panama; and logistics improvement analyses in the Caribbean. We have also carried out environmental assessments with the IMO and economic impact studies related to logistics infrastructure. These projects have strengthened international trade and port efficiency across multiple regions.

What lessons have you learned about the logistics and port sectors in different countries?

We have learned the importance of adapting to local particularities — from variations in regulations and operational practices to differences in organizational culture.

One key lesson is that implementing international standards while tailoring solutions to local realities facilitates regional integration, resulting in greater efficiency and synergy throughout the logistics chain.

The competitiveness of our countries depends on sound policies and regulations, efficient processes, optimal infrastructure, technological implementation, and effective communication among stakeholders. Both the public and private sectors must maintain close collaboration to identify opportunities that allow exports to reach international markets under competitive conditions — while ensuring that the population can access products at more affordable prices.