A group of workers on Panama’s major Fourth Bridge project initiated a partial work stoppage on Monday, February 9. Officials from the Ministry of Labor and Workforce Development (Panama) are now on site mediating the labor dispute.
The workers claim affiliation with the Single Union of Construction Workers and Similar Trades (Suntracs). Their primary grievance involves an alleged company mandate to deduct a one percent fee for a union they describe as illegitimate. Project operations have not fully halted, however, as a portion of the workforce continues normal activities.
Company and Union Clash Over Dues
In an official statement, the Cuarto Puente Consortium asserted its strict compliance with Panamanian labor law. The company cited adherence to a new collective bargaining agreement established in January 2026 and its membership in the Panamanian Chamber of Construction.
“We reiterate our full respect for union freedom and the legal framework that regulates it. In that sense, the management of labor fees is carried out in accordance with applicable regulations, recognizing those organizations that have their affiliates duly accredited and certified before the competent authorities.” [Translated from Spanish]
The consortium directly appealed to workers to return to their posts. It emphasized the need to ensure continuity for this critical national infrastructure project.
This dispute emerges during a pivotal construction phase for the bridge spanning the Panama Canal. The structure is a cornerstone of the country’s plans to enhance metropolitan connectivity and alleviate chronic traffic congestion. Any prolonged labor disruption could threaten the project’s ambitious timeline.
Mediation Efforts Underway
Mitradel mediators are currently facilitating talks between the dissident worker group and company representatives. Their goal is a swift resolution that reactivates the full workforce. The ministry has not yet released an official statement on the progress of negotiations.
Labor tensions in Panama’s large-scale construction sector are not uncommon. The current conflict tests the recently ratified 2026 collective bargaining agreement. Industry observers are watching closely to see if the new framework can efficiently resolve such disputes.
The cuarto puente represents a massive engineering challenge and a significant public investment. Its progress is monitored as a key indicator of national development. The consorcio cuarto puente faces immense pressure to maintain schedules and budgets.
For now, the situation remains fluid. The coming days will determine if mediation succeeds or if the partial stoppage escalates into a wider work interruption. The project’s management must balance legal obligations with the practical need to keep construction moving forward.