The Panama Canal is advancing design work for a Río Indio reservoir, aiming for a 35% conceptual design and a tender by late 2026 or early 2027; preparatory studies and a compensation framework for 500–550 families are underway.
Telemetro reports a significant increase in gasoline prices across Panama effective Friday, March 20, 2026. The report names the effective date but does not specify the amount; consumers and businesses should watch for detailed price notices and possible policy responses.
Chiquita has begun limited banana production trials in Panama to rebuild supply after a prolonged 2025 labor strike, signaling early steps toward operational recovery.
Panama’s National Energy Secretariat announced fuel price increases effective March 20, 2026, raising 95 and 91 octane gasoline and diesel across multiple regions until April 3.
The Alcaldía de San Miguelito has opened registrations at Casa Cultural de Los Andes #2 for a free English course for residents aged 15–17, the municipality announced on March 18, 2026.
Hong Kong’s monetary authority kept its base rate at 4% after the U.S. Fed paused at 3.5–3.75%, with analysts warning that the Middle East conflict has clouded the outlook for rate cuts this year.
China has enacted a law to promote unity and progress among its 56 officially recognised ethnic groups, structuring policy across more than 60 articles in seven chapters.
Harbin’s emergence as China’s ice-festival capital traces back to its founding as the Chinese Eastern Railway’s construction and administrative hub, leaving lasting Russian architectural influence.
Moth Foundation is fitting out a new space in Sai Ying Pun that combines DJ training and an LGBTQ-safe community hub, with construction and music already audible on the street.
Mega Bingo Mundial TV 2026 has launched in Panama, offering prizes such as trips and a house while positioning itself as a platform for a shared cause. Organizers emphasize participation and entertainment, with further details pending.
Al Jazeera reports Tehran is defiant as US and Israeli attacks continue. The situation remains tense with potential regional implications, though specifics were not provided.
EIN Presswire previews Panama’s two friendly internationals against South Africa, noting Panama are ranked 33rd and South Africa 60th; the matches will test squads and tactics.
New strikes across the Middle East — including an Israeli hit on an Iranian gas field and Iranian damage to a Qatari fuel hub — have driven Brent crude toward a 52-week high as U.S. lawmakers press intelligence officials on the Iran war.
TribalFootball reports Panama are assessing their form ahead of two friendly internationals with South Africa, using the matches to evaluate players and tactics.
Hospital San Miguel Arcángel presented a preliminary project for a three‑level maternal and infant annex to expand its infrastructure. Further technical, funding and timeline details have not yet been released.
Sen. Chris Murphy told PBS’ Geoff Bennett that President Trump “has no plan” to end the Iran war, offering a pointed Democratic critique and raising questions about U.S. strategy.
The U.S. has eased sanctions on Venezuela’s state-owned oil company to help curb oil-price spikes tied to the Iran war; the Fed expects one rate cut this year and Pakistan and Afghanistan announced a temporary truce.
A March 18, 2026 report says Panama missed a deadline and was accused of failing to operate major ports at the Panama Canal, escalating a dispute over control. The situation could affect shipping reliability and economic revenues tied to the Canal corridor.
Hong Kong’s Insurance Authority will analyze medical insurance costs and products this year and review rules to attract international life insurance buyers amid pressures from an ageing population and global demand.
Sen. Markwayne Mullin faced a tense Senate confirmation hearing to lead the Department of Homeland Security, with lawmakers pressing him on past remarks and differences from ousted Secretary Kristi Noem.
