Coverage of Panama’s corporate world, markets, startups, and trade developments. We provide news, analysis, and practical insights for business leaders and entrepreneurs.
US-China tensions over Panama’s canal ports have intensified again after Chinese authorities briefly detained Panama-flagged ships in retaliation for a seizure. The dispute highlights how Panama’s strategic shipping routes remain central to global power struggles.
Mi Pueblito Afroantillano will host Afro Panamá Food 2026 on May 16 and 17, bringing together about 80 entrepreneurs from across Panama. The event will highlight Afro-Panamanian cuisine, culture, and small business activity.
Hormuz instability is driving up Panama Canal booking prices, underscoring how conflict in one maritime chokepoint can affect global trade routes. Panama’s canal remains central to shipping even as operators weigh rising security risks.
Panama’s government and fishing industry have opened a 90-day technical table to review sector rules and draft a modernization plan. Business leaders are pushing data transparency, better coordination and sustainability-focused reforms.
China said it will protect the lawful rights and interests of its companies in Panama port matters, highlighting the strategic importance of the country’s shipping infrastructure. The comments come as Panama’s ports remain closely tied to global trade and canal operations.
The United States has led a new international condemnation of China over a dispute tied to the Panama Canal, heightening geopolitical pressure on Panama. The clash underscores the canal’s strategic importance and the risks of foreign interference in Panamanian affairs.
Panama’s Chamber of Commerce is warning that a proposed container tax could push up costs throughout the supply chain and raise prices for essential goods. The group says the measure could hurt consumers and the country’s logistics-driven economy.
A month-long learning experience in Panama gave participants a close look at development from the Panama Canal to the Pacific surf town of Catalina. The trip highlighted how geography, infrastructure, and local character shape real estate decisions.
Several Latin American countries and the United States backed Panama in a joint statement criticizing China’s economic retaliation tied to the Panama Canal dispute. The move highlights the canal’s global importance and Panama’s delicate diplomatic position.
APEDE has rejected Law 491, saying it would weaken Panama’s competitiveness by diverting telecommunications funds to the CSS IVM pension system. The debate adds pressure to the country’s ongoing discussions about social security and economic growth.
Guyana has joined the US, Trinidad and Tobago, Bolivia and others in condemning China’s detention of Panamanian-flagged ships. The dispute highlights the strategic and diplomatic importance of Panama’s maritime registry.
Granja Emita, a West Panama egg producer, has sent its third export shipment to the Caribbean as Panama continues to broaden its export offerings. The move highlights growing regional demand for Panamanian agricultural products.
US-China tensions over Panama have resurfaced, once again highlighting the country’s strategic importance because of the Panama Canal. The dispute underscores the pressure Panama faces as global powers compete for influence.
Fuel prices in Panama will change on May 1, with gasoline increasing and diesel decreasing in both Panama and Colón. The shift will affect drivers, transport costs, and broader business expenses.
US tensions with China over port interests linked to the Panama Canal have renewed global attention on Panama’s most strategic asset. The dispute highlights the country’s central role in trade and sovereignty debates.
Max Florez Arias has been named acting deputy administrator of Panama’s Maritime Authority after Alexander De Gracia’s resignation. The appointment keeps the AMP under interim leadership until a permanent replacement is chosen.
President José Raúl Mulino thanked international support after Panama-flagged vessels were retained in China and urged restraint in the diplomatic response. The case highlights Panama’s global maritime role.
Panama sent a third egg shipment from Granja Emita to the Caribbean, reinforcing the country’s push to diversify exports. The company’s growth highlights the poultry sector’s rising role in trade and local employment.
Tensions in the Middle East are pushing more maritime traffic toward the Panama Canal, creating an economic boost for Panama and new operational demands. The shift underscores the canal’s role as a vital route in global trade.
The United States and allies have reaffirmed support for Panama’s sovereignty amid Chinese pressure, highlighting the country’s strategic role in global maritime transit. The statement reinforces Panama’s importance as a key hub in international shipping and regional diplomacy.