Coverage of Panama’s corporate world, markets, startups, and trade developments. We provide news, analysis, and practical insights for business leaders and entrepreneurs.
Panama is hosting the Maritime Convention of the Americas this week as the canal, security, and the Middle East conflict shape the regional maritime agenda. The country’s maritime and logistics sector accounts for 30% of GDP and employs more than 150,000 people.
President José Raúl Mulino traveled to San José for the inauguration of Costa Rica’s new president, using the visit to emphasize security, border coordination and trade. The trip comes as Panama seeks to improve commercial ties after earlier disputes with Costa Rica.
Portugal is moving toward joining the Panama Canal Neutrality Treaty after talks in Panama, adding support for the waterway’s neutral status. The two countries also discussed scholarships and cooperation in science and education.
RIU Plaza Panama is celebrating 15 years in Panama City, highlighting its role in the capital’s hotel market and its social commitment in the country. The milestone reflects the hotel’s lasting presence in one of Panama’s key business and tourism centers.
Panama has launched an online platform to check postal codes for residences, offices and buildings using a cellphone or other internet-connected device. The tool is meant to improve address accuracy and make everyday transactions easier.
Panama has launched a nationwide postal code system that uses geolocation and a digital platform to standardize addresses across the country. Officials say the change will improve logistics, support e-commerce and strengthen postal services.
Tocumen International Airport ranked first in Latin America and the Caribbean for international passengers in 2025, handling more than 20.7 million travelers. The airport also posted strong growth in total passengers, cargo and aircraft movements.
Panama hosted the Convención Marítima de las Américas as leaders from the canal, shipping, and government sectors confronted global supply-chain risks and Middle East tensions. The event highlighted Panama’s strategic role in world trade and the pressure on its maritime industry.
Tigo Panama raised $87.5 million in a private bond issue, strengthening its financing position in Panama’s telecom market. The deal underscores the sector’s need for steady investment in connectivity and infrastructure.
Bocas del Toro’s banana sector is reactivating after the April 2025 strikes that halted production and disrupted one of Panama’s key export regions. The recovery marks an important step for local jobs and agricultural stability.
Banesco has launched an ICSID arbitration against Panama, with Clifford Chance serving as counsel in the international investment dispute. The case highlights the legal and economic stakes of investor-state conflicts for Panama.
Panama says relations with China have improved after a diplomatic rift, a development with possible implications for trade and investment. The shift highlights Panama’s effort to keep its foreign policy balanced while protecting its economic interests.
President José Raúl Mulino said Panama cut its country risk by 65%, calling it a regional record and a sign of growing investor confidence. The drop could strengthen Panama’s appeal for foreign investment.
Panama’s lottery sellers say unregulated digital raffles are hurting their sales and reducing the income they depend on. The issue is putting pressure on the traditional lottery network and raising questions about regulation.
Panama’s Labor Ministry presented a new internship model to the Chamber of Commerce, aiming to help young people move from school into formal work. The proposal highlights cooperation between government and business on youth employment.
Panama has launched a new online Postal Code System that lets users find the postal code tied to a specific location. The tool is now available through the official government portal.
Panama says relations with China have improved after a recent diplomatic spat, raising hopes for steadier cooperation between the two countries. The shift carries added weight because of Panama’s strategic role as a trade and canal hub.
Panama climbed to fourth place in Latin America’s latest EMBI ranking, signaling a stronger financial profile and lower perceived sovereign risk. President José Raúl Mulino said the improvement reflects conditions investors look for when deciding where to put their money.
Tocumen International Airport led international passenger traffic in Latin America and the Caribbean in 2025, moving 20.7 million travelers. The figure reinforces Panama’s role as a major regional air hub.
Panama’s maritime sector warned that tensions in the Strait of Hormuz could disrupt global shipping, while underscoring the Panama Canal’s importance to world trade. The comments highlight how closely Panama’s economy is tied to international maritime stability.