Coverage of Panama’s corporate world, markets, startups, and trade developments. We provide news, analysis, and practical insights for business leaders and entrepreneurs.
Panama’s tax rules give individuals and companies a formal path to petition the DGI, challenge decisions, and seek account corrections. Deadlines and appeal rights can be decisive when tax balances are disputed.
Cerro Sonsonate in San Miguelito is at the center of a debate over high-density development, green space, and the environmental costs of urban expansion. The dispute highlights how growth in Panama’s capital region can affect heat, drainage, traffic, and public health.
Panama could play a larger role in global energy security as countries look for safer ways to store and move LNG amid rising geopolitical risk. The Canal’s location gives the country a strategic edge in any future reserve-and-distribution model.
Panama is preparing for a major June debate on Bill 413 as Senacyt finalizes the National AI Strategy. The outcome could set the country’s approach to innovation, accountability and digital rights.
Cruise lines are being presented as a job opportunity for Panamanians as unemployment remains high and informal work still dominates much of the labor market. The sector is drawing interest for roles in hospitality, gastronomy, and entertainment.
The Panama Canal says it does not plan transit restrictions in 2026, despite ongoing El Niño concerns. The move is important for Panama’s economy and for global shipping routes that rely on steady canal traffic.
Cruise companies are offering Panamanians a pathway to jobs abroad, with salaries that can start above $1,000 a month and rise with experience. English proficiency remains the main requirement for candidates seeking positions on board.
Costa Rica has intensified a trade dispute with Panama, raising concerns about border commerce, logistics, and regional economic stability. The move adds pressure to ties between two of Central America’s key trading partners.
Costa Rica is escalating its trade dispute with Panama, seeking international action over restrictions on agricultural exports. The conflict, already ruled on by the WTO, remains active after Panama’s appeal.
Panama’s ship registry remains one of the world’s most popular, with thousands of vessels sailing under its flag for cost and regulatory reasons. The issue is again in focus as lawmakers weigh how maritime activity fits into Panama’s economic substance rules.
Panama’s tax revenue rose 9.1% through April 2026, driven in part by stronger consumption and ITBMS collections. Even so, receipts remained below the budget target, underscoring pressure on public finances.
Panama and Costa Rica are advancing a railway vision aimed at creating a regional cargo corridor linking ports, free zones and industrial hubs. The project now faces its biggest test: proving enough freight demand to justify billions in investment.
Panama’s private sector backs the National Assembly debate on the Economic Substance Law but wants adjustments to safeguard competitiveness. The discussion reflects the country’s effort to balance regulatory compliance with its role as a regional business hub.
ASEP has warned of sanctions against the illegal sale of IPTV equipment used to access unauthorized content in Panama. The move targets both sellers and the broader market for unlicensed television services.
Panama has responded to trade tensions with Costa Rica by framing the dispute over agricultural export restrictions as a matter for diplomatic dialogue. The disagreement could affect bilateral trade and regional farm exporters.
Panama’s shift toward the 15% global minimum tax reflects growing OECD pressure, while BVI has focused on economic substance rules instead. The difference highlights how offshore jurisdictions are adapting to a stricter global tax landscape.
Panama’s Environment Ministry flagged acid rock drainage risks in exposed ore stockpiles at Cobre Panamá as part of its latest audit update. The finding underscores the need for ongoing monitoring and mitigation at the mine site.
Panama has lost an estimated $5.5 billion since the suspension of Cobre Panamá, including nearly $1.1 billion in taxes and royalties. The mine’s shutdown removed a major economic driver for the country and a key revenue source for the state.
Costa Rican President Laura Fernández said she will pursue international action over a trade dispute with Panama affecting potato, onion and dairy producers. The move escalates tensions over market access for key agricultural exports.
Cobre Panamá’s integral audit has reached the stage of final report consolidation, with publication expected in the coming weeks. The review remains important for Panama’s mining, economic, and regulatory outlook.