Coverage of Panama’s corporate world, markets, startups, and trade developments. We provide news, analysis, and practical insights for business leaders and entrepreneurs.
Apede is calling for Panama’s tourism growth to expand beyond the capital and into the provinces, arguing that better connectivity and promotion could create more jobs nationwide. The group is also backing new regional tourism initiatives ahead of its May 29 forum.
Panama’s business leaders have backed Ilya Espino de Marotta and urged technical leadership for the Panama Canal as it faces water, climate and infrastructure challenges. The move underscores the canal’s central role in the country’s economy and logistics sector.
Panama’s National Assembly is moving Bill No. 641 to second debate, with revised tax and substance rules aimed at foreign-source passive income. The proposal remains closely watched because of its impact on the merchant marine sector and Panama’s EU compliance goals.
ApeDe is calling for a stronger tourism push into Panama’s interior provinces, saying visitor spending should help create more economic activity outside the capital. The idea could spread tourism income more evenly across local businesses and communities.
CCIAP has endorsed Ilya Espino de Marotta’s appointment to lead the Panama Canal, calling it a historic milestone and a sign of technical merit. The business sector says her leadership will be crucial as the Canal faces water, climate, and infrastructure challenges.
Spanish police have tied businessman Julio Martínez Martínez to an alleged influence network linked to the Plus Ultra bailout and former premier José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero. The case centers on public funds, offshore companies, and the political use of business contacts.
Iran says it will secure the Strait of Hormuz under a “new regional order” as talks with Washington move toward a deal that could reopen the crucial shipping lane. The standoff matters far beyond the Gulf because disruptions there can ripple through global energy and maritime trade.
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.