Coverage of Panama’s corporate world, markets, startups, and trade developments. We provide news, analysis, and practical insights for business leaders and entrepreneurs.
Ilya Espino de Marotta is set to make history as the first woman to lead the Panama Canal, but her real challenge will be water security and competitiveness. Her long technical career gives her strong credentials for a role central to Panama’s economy.
Panama’s business and industrial groups backed the government’s hard line in the trade dispute with Costa Rica, but urged a technical, diplomatic solution. They warned the clash could harm investment, competitiveness and regional integration.
SpaceX successfully launched Starship V3 from Texas after a scrubbed attempt, marking a major test for its reusable rocket program. The flight is closely watched because NASA needs a future Starship version for Artemis lunar missions.
Aerolíneas Argentinas has unveiled a Messi-inspired aircraft that will transport Argentina’s national team to the 2026 World Cup, complete with the No. 10 on the tail. The airline also plans special flights to U.S. host cities and extra service to Miami.
Tecnolac is investing $36 million in a modern dairy complex in Coclé aimed at raising local milk output and helping narrow Panama’s production gap. President José Raúl Mulino toured the site as the company prepared to begin operations in the coming months.
Panama’s suspension of electricity sales to Costa Rica has deepened a trade dispute and sparked warnings about higher costs and possible rationing. The clash comes as Costa Rica faces El Niño-related energy pressure and broader concerns over regional power cooperation.
FIFA’s sponsorship drive for the 2026 World Cup is accelerating as the tournament’s commercial and media footprint grows. Panama fans will get an early taste of the buildup when Brazil faces Panama in a May 31 friendly.
President José Raúl Mulino signaled full support for the Panama Canal’s long-term project agenda after naming Ilya Espino de Marotta. Water security, Rio Indio, and new logistics infrastructure are now central priorities.
Spain’s National Court has launched a formal investigation into former Prime Minister José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero over alleged influence-peddling tied to a pandemic bailout. The case also examines offshore transfers linked to Panama, raising fresh questions about cross-border money flows.
A better near-term outlook for the Panama Canal is easing concerns for U.S. LNG shipments headed to Asia. The development matters for shipping costs, transit times, and Panama’s role in global energy trade.
A better near-term outlook for the Panama Canal reduces a major shipping risk for U.S. LNG cargoes headed to Asia. The shift supports Panama’s role as a key global transit hub.
Kevin Warsh was sworn in as Federal Reserve chair in a White House ceremony where Donald Trump renewed pressure for lower interest rates. The appointment is closely watched in Panama and other dollarized economies that track U.S. monetary policy.
The Panama Canal will immediately open a new competitive search for its deputy administrator once Ilya Espino de Marotta takes over as administrator on September 5. Officials say the process will mirror the same technical, transparent selection model used for the top job.
A Spanish judicial order places Panama-linked firm Panacorp at the center of the Plus Ultra bailout probe, alongside claims of fictitious financing and influence peddling. Former prime minister José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero is now named in the case and is due to testify on June 2.
Spotify and Universal Music Group are teaming up on an AI tool that would let Premium users create remixes and versions of songs with artist consent and compensation. The deal signals how the music industry is trying to shape generative AI around licensing instead of conflict.
Iran has expanded the maritime zone it claims to control around the Strait of Hormuz, deepening tensions with the United States and Gulf states. The move comes as ship seizures, naval interceptions and diplomatic efforts all intensify around the vital oil route.
The European Union is preparing sanctions against Iran after the blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, a route used for about 20% of global hydrocarbons. The disruption highlights how a regional conflict can ripple through energy markets and shipping worldwide.
Air Europa has launched Air Europa ON, a broad service upgrade focused on cabin comfort, airport experience, punctuality and fleet maintenance. The changes are especially relevant for long-haul travelers connecting through Madrid-Barajas.
Air Europa has launched a major service plan focused on better onboard comfort, ground handling and punctuality, with its Madrid hub playing a central role. The changes matter for Latin American travelers who connect through Spain on long-haul trips.
Ilya Espino de Marotta has been named administrator of the Panama Canal, taking over at a moment defined by water security concerns and logistics expansion. Her leadership will be closely watched as the canal balances national revenue, climate pressure, and global shipping demand.