Coverage of Panama’s corporate world, markets, startups, and trade developments. We provide news, analysis, and practical insights for business leaders and entrepreneurs.
Movida and Bank of China Panama are preparing bond offerings in Panama, highlighting continued activity in the country’s capital markets. The deals underscore Panama’s role as a regional financing hub.
Panama’s National Assembly has begun debating a major Tax Code reform aimed at tighter corporate oversight, higher revenue, and compliance with international standards. The bill targets economic substance rules and special tax regimes used by multinational companies.
Felipe Chapman defended Panama’s proposed economic substance bill, saying it is a domestic reform rather than an external demand. The measure is part of broader efforts to strengthen transparency and business credibility.
Panama’s tourism sector grew 17.3% in the first quarter of 2026, generating more than $2 billion in economic impact. The Tourism Authority says it aims to top 2025’s results.
Panama nearly reached one million visitors in the first quarter of 2026, boosted by Carnival, Copa Airlines’ Stopover program and international events. Officials say the surge generated more than $2 billion in economic impact.
A Swedish national convicted in Panama for money laundering has resurfaced in connection with offshore financial services and New Zealand-based platforms. The case revives scrutiny of Panama’s role in international shell-company networks.
The Biomuseo in Panama has opened new vacancies for security and visitor services, reinforcing staffing at one of the capital’s top cultural attractions. The hiring move highlights the museum’s role in tourism, education and local employment.
Holland America Line has completed a major transformation of Oosterdam, a move designed to elevate Europe, Caribbean and Panama Canal cruises. The upgrade underscores the growing demand for premium cruise experiences tied to iconic itineraries.
Oil shipments through the Panama Canal have climbed 70% as Asian buyers increasingly rely on U.S. crude. The surge reinforces the canal’s role in global energy trade and Panama’s economy.
The Panama Canal is handling record traffic as a blockade in the Strait of Hormuz pushes shippers toward alternative routes. The surge highlights Panama’s growing strategic role in global trade.
A shipment of U.S. Strategic Petroleum Reserve crude is headed to Panama for the first time, destined for a west coast refinery. The move highlights Panama’s role in regional energy logistics and maritime trade.
Panama’s geographic advantages are substantial, but its maritime and logistics assets need tighter coordination to create more national value. The case for a National Maritime Strategy is also a warning about institutional fragmentation.
Panama’s latest electricity tender posted record prices, strengthening expectations that battery storage will become a key focus in the country’s power market. The result points to a shift toward more flexible grid solutions as renewable energy expands.
Panama Canal slot auction prices have reached a record $4 million per ship, reflecting intense demand for guaranteed transit access. The surge highlights the canal’s continuing importance to global shipping and trade schedules.
Polymarket’s listed Panama headquarters has drawn scrutiny after reporters found an empty law office at the address. The discovery raises fresh questions about the company’s offshore structure and transparency.
All Nippon Airways is studying a Panama route that could create a new air bridge between Asia and Latin America. The potential link would reinforce Panama’s role as a regional aviation and logistics hub.
Panama has emerged as a key jurisdiction in the Lili Pink probe, with investigators examining shell companies, nominee directors, and resignations tied to the business network. The case highlights how corporate structures in Panama may have been used to move goods and obscure ownership.
Panama’s proposed Fiscal Code reform is drawing legal scrutiny over a 15% tax penalty for companies that fail to prove real economic presence. Lawyers are urging lawmakers to fine-tune the measure so it strengthens tax oversight without discouraging investment.
Bvlgari has opened its first Central America boutique at Multiplaza in Panama City, unveiling a 252-square-meter luxury space inspired by Roman design. The launch positions Panama as the brand’s regional gateway for high-end retail.
Tensions around the Strait of Hormuz are driving more shipping traffic toward the Panama Canal as carriers look for safer routes. The trend underscores Panama’s role as a key alternative in global trade.