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 advancing new economic substance rules that could reshape how shipping structures use the country’s maritime registry. The move is part of a broader push to strengthen compliance and protect the reputation of the Panamanian flag.
Panama’s tax reform is drawing attention not only for tougher rules on multinational companies, but also for the need to impose deadlines and accountability on the state. The debate centers on whether the government should modernize its own tax administration as aggressively as it regulates taxpayers.
Panama’s pension debate is turning toward how the country can use income from ports, the Canal and logistics to build a more sustainable system. The key issue is not only revenue, but whether new funds can be managed with strong oversight and credibility.
Panama Customs seized alleged counterfeit national team jerseys and 130,000 World Cup 2026 stickers in Paso Canoas, Chiriquí, during an attempted illegal crossing toward Costa Rica.
Gasoline and diesel prices in Panama will increase starting May 15 and remain in place until May 29, 2026. The change is likely to affect drivers, transport costs, and business expenses.
Panama’s Bill 491 has sparked a dispute between lawmakers, the president, and maritime business groups over its impact on logistics and shipping costs. Supporters say the measure would not hurt the economy, while critics warn it could affect port activity.
Asep has warned that TV boxes and IPTV devices in Panama can only be sold with authorized content and licensed applications. The regulator says violations may lead to sanctions from Asep and consumer protection authorities.
DP World has secured IATA certification for its freight forwarding operations in Panama, boosting its air cargo presence in a key regional logistics hub. The move adds to Panama’s role in connecting trade flows across the Americas.
Copa Holdings posted higher first-quarter revenue as expanded capacity helped boost airline activity. The result highlights the company’s role as a major Panama-based carrier and regional travel hub operator.
President José Raúl Mulino promoted Panama as a key connector of markets, investment, and opportunity during a congress on free trade zones. His message highlighted the country’s role as a regional logistics and commerce hub.
Panama and the Dominican Republic renewed their push to strengthen trade and migration cooperation during a meeting between Presidents José Raúl Mulino and Luis Abinader. The talks took place at the World Free Zones Organization congress, underscoring the countries’ shared interest in logistics and regional commerce.
Panama and the Dominican Republic are pressing free zones to move beyond tax incentives and low-cost storage toward technology, advanced manufacturing and logistics. The discussion at a major congress in Panama City highlighted how both countries want to deepen trade and investment.
Panama’s National Lottery has deployed its own system to process pending Lotto and Pega 3 payouts after the electronic platform was shut down. Officials also extended prize-claim deadlines for winning tickets tied to active draws.
Panama City’s municipality will hold a public hearing on extending business hours during the World Cup. The proposal is aimed at boosting commerce as the tournament drives local economic activity.
Finance Minister Felipe Chapman backed excluding Panama’s maritime sector from the draft Law on Economic Substance now under review in the National Assembly. The move could shape how the country balances regulation with the competitiveness of a key service industry.
President José Raúl Mulino used the World Free Zones Congress in Panama to invite sector leaders to invest in the country. The event highlights Panama’s push to strengthen its role as a regional logistics and commerce hub.
Felipe Chapman backed excluding Panama’s merchant shipping sector from economic substance rules in the Fiscal Code reform. Officials say the changes could help modernize tax rules while supporting Panama’s standing with the European Union.
Panama’s Ministry of Labor and the Chamber of Commerce announced new job openings, highlighting cooperation between the public and private sectors. The vacancies add another avenue for job seekers to find formal employment opportunities.
ASEP has limited distributors of TV Boxes and IPTV devices in Panama to technical support only. The move adds new regulatory pressure to the country’s digital entertainment market.
ASEP has expanded its rules on IPTV devices in Panama, targeting the sale and installation of equipment used to access unauthorized television content. The regulator says licensed streaming platforms remain unaffected.