Coverage of Panama’s corporate world, markets, startups, and trade developments. We provide news, analysis, and practical insights for business leaders and entrepreneurs.
CK Hutchison has taken Maersk to arbitration after Panama forced the conglomerate out of two canal-linked port operations. The dispute underscores the strategic importance of Panama’s port infrastructure to global shipping.
CK Hutchison’s Panama unit has launched arbitration against Maersk over the takeover of two strategic ports near the Panama Canal. The dispute highlights the commercial and legal stakes surrounding one of Panama’s most important logistics corridors.
Panama power distributors are warning that self-consumption is reducing demand from the grid as more customers generate part of their own electricity. The shift is raising questions about utility finances and long-term planning.
Panama has approved First Quantum Minerals to remove, process and export stockpiled ore from its shuttered copper mine. The decision adds a new chapter to one of the country’s most contentious mining disputes.
A CK Hutchison subsidiary has launched arbitration against Maersk, accusing the Danish shipping giant of trying to replace its operations in Panama. The dispute adds fresh pressure to competition over port control tied to the Panama Canal.
Panama is moving to unlock about 70,000 tonnes of copper at Cobre Panamá, renewing focus on the mine’s role in the country’s economy. The development highlights the project’s importance to exports, jobs and the national debate over mining.
Panama has authorized First Quantum to process stockpiled material from the shuttered Cobre Panamá mine, keeping the contested copper project in the national spotlight. The move comes after the mine was closed in 2023 following protests.
A proposed Costa Rica–Panama rail link could open a new era for Central American travel, potentially boosting tourism and regional mobility. For Panama, the project could strengthen its role as a transport gateway.
A $689,000 property in Volcancito, Boquete offers four independent rental units, mountain views, and flexible use as a home, lodge, or restaurant. The three-story highland property includes backup power, fenced grounds, and landscaped outdoor spaces.
Panama’s trade ministry has authorized First Quantum Minerals to remove material from the closed Cobre Panama mine, a new development in the dispute over the shuttered project. The decision adds another layer to the country’s ongoing debate over mining, investment, and environmental concerns.
Consultorios Town Center held its first Networking Day of 2026 in Panama, bringing together medical specialists to build alliances and strengthen collaboration. The initiative supports a more integrated care network connected to Hospital Pacífica Salud Costa del Este.
Construction firms tied to the Blue Apple bribery case continue winning major Panamanian state contracts, including emergency awards worth millions. The pattern renews scrutiny over public works procurement and accountability.
A commentary on the Panama Canal argues that its next leader must combine technical ability with historical understanding, emotional maturity, and systemic thinking. The piece presents the Canal as both a strategic asset and a symbol of Panama’s national identity.
Panama’s tourism sector drew more than 3 million visitors in 2025 and generated $6.583 billion, but job creation and wages continued to lag behind the broader economy. The industry remains important for young workers and microenterprises, yet most of its employment is still informal or low-paid.
Detentions of Panama-flagged ships in Chinese ports jumped sharply in March, with 92 vessels retained and the increase coming after the Panama Ports Company ruling. Panama has won diplomatic backing as the dispute draws wider attention.
Ciudad del Saber is celebrating 25 years as a major Panama hub for innovation, entrepreneurship and international cooperation. The campus now hosts more than 260 organizations and generates an estimated $314 million a year in economic activity.
Business groups in Chiriquí are defending Puerto Barú as a key investment for jobs and regional growth, while urging a decision based on legal and technical grounds. They say Panama must protect legal certainty to attract foreign investment.
Panama is preparing to authorize the removal of material from First Quantum’s Cobre Panamá mine, a development tied to one of the country’s most controversial industrial assets. The move underscores the mine’s continuing importance to Panama’s economy and politics.
The Panama Canal remains central to the global balance of power as nations compete over strategic corridors, trade routes, and logistics. A comparison with the Strait of Hormuz shows why control of key nodes matters as much as military force.
Panama appears in a broader discussion of U.S. regional diplomacy, with attention on the Panama Canal, shipping, and Central American partnerships. The canal’s strategic role keeps Panama central to trade and geopolitical debates.