Coverage of Panama’s corporate world, markets, startups, and trade developments. We provide news, analysis, and practical insights for business leaders and entrepreneurs.
President José Raúl Mulino defended Panama’s stance in its trade dispute with Costa Rica, saying his duty is to protect Panamanian producers. He also said no energy sales to Costa Rica have been approved.
Panama’s Savings Fund posted a positive return in the first quarter of 2026 despite global market turbulence and benchmark losses. Managers said the result reflects a long-term, diversified strategy built to withstand volatility.
Panama’s National Assembly committee has sent an economic substance bill to the plenary after approving it in first debate. The measure could affect corporate transparency and Panama’s role as a regional business hub.
Trump said a U.S.-Iran deal is nearly complete, with the Strait of Hormuz at the center of the talks. Iran, however, is signaling that major issues still need to be settled.
Panama’s growing interest in responsible consumption is reshaping how people think about cosmetics, packaging, and waste. The change is especially relevant in a country where plastic pollution and ocean health are closely connected.
Mango grew from a Barcelona market stall into a global fashion giant under Isak Andic, but the family now faces a succession crisis after his death. The company remains strong commercially even as legal and inheritance disputes intensify.
A new Konzerta survey finds 93% of workers in Panama say their salary is not enough to cover basic needs. Most respondents also report debt, weak purchasing power, and little room to save.
Marathon Asset Management has cut its Copa Holdings stake, but Panama’s role as a hemispheric air hub still anchors the airline’s business model. The move highlights investor sentiment, not a change in Panama’s strategic advantage.
Panama is scrapping its 5.5% tax on casino and betting winnings to make the country more attractive to foreign tourists and help revive a weakening tourism sector. Officials are pairing the tax relief with tighter oversight of gambling operators.
Foreign nationals seeking a U.S. green card will now have applications handled through U.S. consular offices abroad. The change could affect Panamanians and other applicants with immigration plans tied to the United States.
Panama is adding more formal private-sector jobs in 2026, but unemployment remains near 10.4%, highlighting a gap between hiring volume and job quality. Economists say the challenge now is turning contract growth into stable employment.
Panama’s economic substance bill advanced after first debate with stronger tax and proportionality rules. Lawmakers still need to fine-tune language on outsourced services before the final vote.
Panama’s mining chamber has installed a new board that will push sustainable mining while keeping the debate over a possible sector reactivation alive. The move comes as mining remains one of the country’s most sensitive economic and environmental issues.
Ilya Espino de Marotta is set to make history as the first woman to lead the Panama Canal, but her real challenge will be water security and competitiveness. Her long technical career gives her strong credentials for a role central to Panama’s economy.
Panama’s business and industrial groups backed the government’s hard line in the trade dispute with Costa Rica, but urged a technical, diplomatic solution. They warned the clash could harm investment, competitiveness and regional integration.
SpaceX successfully launched Starship V3 from Texas after a scrubbed attempt, marking a major test for its reusable rocket program. The flight is closely watched because NASA needs a future Starship version for Artemis lunar missions.
Aerolíneas Argentinas has unveiled a Messi-inspired aircraft that will transport Argentina’s national team to the 2026 World Cup, complete with the No. 10 on the tail. The airline also plans special flights to U.S. host cities and extra service to Miami.
Tecnolac is investing $36 million in a modern dairy complex in Coclé aimed at raising local milk output and helping narrow Panama’s production gap. President José Raúl Mulino toured the site as the company prepared to begin operations in the coming months.
Panama’s suspension of electricity sales to Costa Rica has deepened a trade dispute and sparked warnings about higher costs and possible rationing. The clash comes as Costa Rica faces El Niño-related energy pressure and broader concerns over regional power cooperation.
FIFA’s sponsorship drive for the 2026 World Cup is accelerating as the tournament’s commercial and media footprint grows. Panama fans will get an early taste of the buildup when Brazil faces Panama in a May 31 friendly.