Coverage of Panama’s corporate world, markets, startups, and trade developments. We provide news, analysis, and practical insights for business leaders and entrepreneurs.
A New York Times investigation links Panamanian businessman Ramón Carretero to a Venezuelan oil trade that allegedly used a shell company and unusual payment terms. The case raises fresh concerns in Panama about cross-border deals tied to sanctioned markets and political influence.
Panama has awarded power supply contracts to existing plants, reinforcing near-term electricity supply through generators already operating on the grid. The move highlights the country’s focus on reliability and continuity in its power system.
Vendors at the Santiago Market in Veraguas say prices have risen on some fruits and vegetables because of lower sales and higher production costs. The change is affecting shoppers and small traders in one of the province’s key markets.
Panama and Israel strengthened their ties during a presidential meeting in Panama City focused on technology, agriculture, and water management. The two leaders also touched on the Middle East conflict and broader international support.
Panama’s Assembly is weighing an economic substance bill aimed at companies that register in the country without real local operations. Eduardo Gaitán says the measure is designed to strengthen compliance and help Panama improve its international standing.
Panama says ties with China have improved after a dispute over two canal ports ended with the country taking control of the facilities. The case underscores how the Panama Canal and nearby logistics assets shape diplomacy and trade.
The Panama Canal’s website now groups vacancies, internships, and training opportunities in one place. The platform is aimed at job seekers, students, and workers interested in career growth tied to the Canal.
Codere says it remains committed to Panama and is seeking a constructive solution after notifying the government about a controversy involving an investment agreement. The company says dialogue with authorities should lead to a satisfactory outcome.
The Chamber of Commerce has promoted new job openings in Chiriquí and Darién, expanding employment options in Panama’s provinces. The vacancies reflect continued private-sector hiring beyond the capital.
Panama placed $156 million in public debt at auction, topping market expectations and showing continued investor interest despite higher global rates. The result points to resilient demand for Panamanian sovereign debt.
The Panama Canal is facing rising pressure from climate-related water stress and global strategic competition. For Panama, protecting the canal’s reliability is becoming a major economic and geopolitical priority.
Mitsubishi Motors and Excel Panamá launched “Ayer, Hoy y Siempre Mitsubishi,” a campaign that ties the brand to Panamanian identity through local rock music. The rollout also includes the Promo XL, with bonuses, delayed payments and long-term financing.
Bocas del Toro’s banana sector has recovered more than 5,000 jobs and is preparing to resume reexports after the 2025 crisis. The rebound is a major sign of recovery for one of Panama’s key agricultural regions.
Panama reported a 25% rise in new contracts in the first quarter of 2026, with commerce and construction leading hiring. The labor ministry also highlighted stronger youth employment programs and a push toward digitalization.
Panama is part of a regional tourism push that bundles multi-country routes to attract more travelers and encourage longer stays. The strategy could help strengthen Panama’s role as a gateway destination in Latin America and the Caribbean.
Panama’s Cabinet approved a B/.64.6 million state contribution to the Tariff Stabilization Fund to reimburse electricity distributors for customer discounts from July to December 2025. The measure benefits 930,000 users who consumed up to 300 kWh per month.
Panama’s container terminal bidding process is under scrutiny amid concerns it favors non-U.S. operators. The outcome could influence the country’s role as a key logistics hub tied to the Panama Canal.
U.S. companies are facing difficult odds in the race for Panama container terminal concessions as the country reshapes port control. The bidding highlights the strategic and economic importance of Panama’s logistics network.
Panama’s Cepanim platform has surpassed 205,000 registrations, reaching about half of the beneficiaries included in the program. The MEF says the digital system is helping speed up the processing of pending payment certificates.
Panama’s proposed Fiscal Code reform is fueling debate over multinational companies, economic substance rules, and a possible 15% tax on firms without real operations in the country. The government says the measure will improve transparency and help Panama leave the EU tax-haven list.