Panama City and Cartagena share Caribbean ambition, but each has taken a different route to growth. One leans on heritage and tourism, while the other combines business, shopping, and global connectivity.
Panama’s Decree 10 on digital transport platforms has triggered criticism and renewed debate over how app-based ride services should be regulated. The issue pits calls for order against concerns about limiting a growing mobility option.
Panama’s new decree for ride-hailing platforms is drawing sharp criticism for requiring operating permits, transport backing, and taxi-style rules. Opponents say the changes could raise costs, reduce competition, and weaken app-based mobility.
inDrive warned that new transport rules in Panama could affect thousands of drivers and raise costs for users. The changes highlight ongoing tensions over regulation, pricing, and mobility in the country.
Panama’s president is facing criticism over frequent travel abroad as many citizens call for stronger attention to domestic problems. The debate is sharpening around whether the government’s “con paso firme” message still reflects reality.
Panama faces growing climate and disaster risks, and prevention must replace the old habit of reacting after the damage is done. The country’s economic dependence on logistics makes resilience a national priority.
A fatal crash on the Arraiján-La Chorrera highway left one person dead and triggered heavy traffic jams west of Panama City. The incident disrupted one of Panama Oeste’s busiest commuter routes.
Panama has issued a fire warning through April 23 after detecting more heat spots in several provinces. The alert highlights elevated wildfire risk and the need for prevention measures.
North Korea fired multiple ballistic missiles from its eastern Sinpo area in its seventh launch test of the year, escalating regional tensions again. The move highlights the regime’s continued weapons development and the broader security risks for Asia and beyond.
A food festival at Panama Viejo drew crowds while highlighting Panama’s culinary identity. The event was part of a broader agenda promoted by the Panama City mayor’s office.
The IMA will hold agro-fairs across Panama on April 20 and 21, with affordable products available starting at 8:00 a.m. The events are designed to give households access to lower-cost goods in multiple locations.
Capellanía will celebrate the Festival de la Carreta from April 30 to May 4 with cultural activities, typical music, and local carreteros. The event aims to preserve community traditions and highlight one of Panama’s most iconic rural symbols.
Panama’s government has launched its first Cybersecurity Operations Center to monitor state networks in real time amid a rise in cyberattacks. The new unit adds to recent investments in tools designed to detect threats before they spread.
More than 250 dancers gathered at Mi Pueblito to celebrate Panama’s devil dance traditions, including Diablos Congo, Espejo, de Pañuelos and Sucios. The event highlighted the cultural diversity and lasting importance of these folkloric expressions.
Banco Davivienda is expanding its mortgage strategy in Panama with competitive rates and cost-saving benefits for home buyers. The package includes legal fee coverage, appraisal refunds, and no renewal fees every five years.
TVN 2 promoted live LPF coverage of Deportivo Árabe Unido vs. UMECIT FC through its TVMAX Panamá YouTube channel. The broadcast reflects the growing role of digital platforms in Panama’s football coverage.
Panama’s Public Prosecutor’s Office is investigating a cyberattack on email accounts linked to the Social Security Fund. The case is being handled as a computer security offense.
La Chorrera is promoting a cultural tourism route built around museums, markets, agrotourism, and food experiences. The district aims to attract more visitors and diversify its tourism offer.
Iran says the Strait of Hormuz will stay closed until the US ends what Tehran calls a blockade of Iranian ports, raising fears of wider disruption to global trade and energy supplies. The standoff could push up shipping and fuel costs far beyond the Middle East, including in Latin America.
Expovivienda is seeing strong attendance in its 23rd edition, with more than 100 developers and nearly 300 housing projects on display across Panama. The fair highlights continued interest in residential property in both the capital and the interior.