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 open to talks with Costa Rica over a ban affecting meat and dairy products, signaling a preference for negotiation over escalation. The dispute highlights how sanitary rules can quickly affect regional trade in Central America.
Fuel prices in Panama will rise again starting Friday, May 15, putting more pressure on drivers, households, and businesses. The increase is expected to affect daily budgets and transportation costs.
Panama’s National Assembly has finished consultations on the economic substance bill after hearing from business groups and specialists. The proposal now moves deeper into committee review.
APEDE held a tourism forum to promote Colón as a Panamanian destination, highlighting its beaches, culture and history. The effort aims to reshape perceptions of the Caribbean province and boost local tourism.
Generadora Gatún closed a $1.05 billion bond offering backed by strong investor demand, marking a major financing milestone for Panama’s energy sector. The Colón plant says the deal strengthens its capital structure and supports the country’s energy transition.
Panama’s Ministry of Economy and Finance has registered more than 240,000 Cepanim beneficiaries and begun printing the certificates. The process marks another step in managing interest payments tied to delayed obligations.
Enrique Riquelme’s business ties to Panama have resurfaced as he is discussed as a possible challenger in Real Madrid’s election process. His companies have expanded in Panama through solar investments and past work linked to the Panama Canal expansion.
Acodeco detected alleged misleading advertising and expired products at Wow Depot, a recently opened warehouse store in Panama. The case underscores consumer protection enforcement in the country’s retail sector.
Panama’s Ministry of Economy and Finance clarified how CEPANIM certificate payments will be calculated, including 3% annual interest on the retained Thirteenth Month. The explanation gives holders a clearer way to estimate what they may receive.
Bank of America is projecting a positive economic outlook for Panama in 2026, citing market confidence that places the country near BBB investment-grade metrics. The assessment highlights fiscal consolidation and macroeconomic stability as key strengths.
Panama’s diplomatic choice to recognize China over Taiwan is back in focus as tensions rise between Washington and Beijing. The dispute carries major implications for global trade and for Panama’s role as a shipping hub.
Panama is nearing a nationwide rollout of its digital driver’s license, which will cost less than the physical version. The new format is part of the country’s push toward more modern public services.
The Panama Canal is more than a trade route for the United States; it is a strategic asset tied to security, logistics, and regional influence. Its central role also reinforces Panama’s importance in global commerce and geopolitics.
Panama’s official fuel price list shows 95-octane gasoline rising 9 cents per liter in the latest adjustment. The new rate will remain in effect until May 29.
Panama City is expanding its tourism appeal with Casco Peatonal, Playita Las Garzas and a packed cultural calendar as visitor arrivals rise nationwide. The city is tying public-space upgrades to the country’s broader tourism boom.
Copa Holdings reported first-quarter profit of $212.5 million as passenger traffic rose and the airline expanded its fleet. Higher fuel costs weighed on results, but the company maintained strong margins and liquidity.
Panama’s National Energy Secretariat has announced higher fuel prices nationwide, with gasoline 95, gasoline 91 and diesel all rising. The increase is linked to global oil market pressure driven by tensions in the Middle East.
Panama’s strategic location and services-based economy give it room to strengthen growth through freer markets and pro-business reform. The country’s future competitiveness may depend on how well it supports private enterprise.
Panama’s Maritime Chamber is urging an urgent update to the country’s maritime strategy to protect its logistics hub status and support jobs. The call comes as new port investments, Canal-linked projects and regional competition reshape the sector.
Panama could raise up to US$177.5 million from planned 5G licenses, underscoring the fiscal and economic stakes of the country’s next mobile rollout. The move could also speed digital upgrades for businesses and consumers.