Coverage of Panama’s corporate world, markets, startups, and trade developments. We provide news, analysis, and practical insights for business leaders and entrepreneurs.
Panama has restated its commitment to the global maritime and logistics industry, reinforcing the country’s role as a key international shipping hub. The move highlights the continued economic importance of the Panama Canal and the wider logistics sector.
China has been detaining Panama-flagged ships at a sharply higher rate, raising concerns amid a dispute tied to Panama Canal terminal concessions. The move could affect shipping, trade flows, and Panama’s wider maritime interests.
China is detaining Panama-flagged ships at unusually high rates, deepening a dispute that could affect the Panama Canal and the country’s maritime interests. The move highlights Panama’s central role in global shipping.
Panama Canal slot auctions have hit a record $4 million, reflecting strong demand for transit access through the key global shipping route. The spike highlights the canal’s continuing importance for freight planning and supply chains.
DP World has expanded its Panama air freight network after securing IATA certification, strengthening its logistics and compliance capabilities. The move adds to Panama’s role as a key regional hub for global trade.
Panama Canal revenue has risen 10 to 15 percent as oil tankers reroute away from the Strait of Hormuz amid the Iran conflict. The shift highlights the canal’s role as a key alternative in global shipping.
Dominican President Luis Abinader will travel to Panama to deliver the keynote address at the World Free Zones Congress. The event underscores Panama’s role as a regional hub for trade and investment discussions.
The Panama Canal posted 7,444 high-draft transits through April of fiscal 2026, up 5.1% from a year earlier. Growth was led by LNG, oil tankers and stronger Neopanamax container traffic.
Panama’s economic substance debate is centered on better tax collection, stronger transparency and a more attractive investment climate. Supporters say the measure could help create real jobs, improve competitiveness and support the country’s international standing.
Panama’s telecom authority has launched an investor portal to promote the local market as interest grows in a new mobile operator. Between three and four companies are reportedly evaluating the opportunity.
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.