Coverage of Panama’s corporate world, markets, startups, and trade developments. We provide news, analysis, and practical insights for business leaders and entrepreneurs.
Panama’s cattle ranchers are rejecting Costa Rican pressure as a years-long dispute over meat and dairy imports continues. The trade fight remains tied to Panama’s appeal of a WTO ruling against its restrictions.
Panama’s cattle leaders are rejecting political pressure from Costa Rica and insisting the dairy and meat dispute be resolved through sanitary and WTO rules. The long-running conflict continues to test trade relations and Panama’s protections for local producers.
Panama’s commerce minister said the government will seek dialogue with Costa Rica over a trade dispute, stressing a relationship based on reciprocity. The stance signals a preference for negotiation to protect bilateral commercial ties.
Panama says it is ready to negotiate with Costa Rica, but only under equal conditions, Trade and Industry Minister Julio Moltó said. He added that the government’s measures are intended to protect the country’s productive sector.
Panama’s government, DIGECA, and Caja de Ahorros signed an agreement to expand loans and financial education for more than 240,000 public servants. The program is aimed at improving access to banking products for the country’s public workforce.
Panama nearly reached one million tourist arrivals in the first quarter of 2026, with officials highlighting growth in leisure and business travel. The tourism push also aims to strengthen the country’s global positioning.
Panama’s Economic Commission is continuing hearings on a proposal that would require companies to maintain a physical presence in the country. Lawmakers are expected to begin the bill’s first formal debate after Thursday.
Under Secretary Helberg’s visit to Panama highlights the country’s strategic role in trade, diplomacy, and regional cooperation. The trip also underscores continued U.S. interest in Central America and the canal hub.
CEPANIM 2026 certificates in Panama will be tradable and tax-free, with values calculated by a formula based on time and worker contributions. The design gives the certificates more flexibility and financial weight.
Panama will keep its electricity subsidy for customers using up to 300 kWh per month, backed by more than B/.64.6 million from the MEF. The measure provides direct relief to households and other eligible users.
Panamanian lawmakers visited China to discuss ports, cooperation, and a monument honoring the Chinese community. The trip highlighted Panama’s ongoing interest in trade, logistics, and bilateral ties with Beijing.
Panama’s government, DIGECA and Caja de Ahorros signed a cooperation agreement to expand financial education and credit access for public workers. The plan covers loans, mortgages, car financing and credit cards for eligible employees.
Panama’s debate over economic substance is reshaping the argument for transparency as a competitive advantage. Supporters say the country’s experience with automatic information exchange shows that stronger rules can attract real investment and protect financial stability.
Panama’s construction permits rose 36.3% in the first quarter, signaling a recovery after two years of decline. Even with the rebound, the sector remains below 2023 levels.
Rising tensions around the Strait of Hormuz are increasing attention on the Panama Canal as shipping firms look for safer and more reliable routes. The shift highlights the canal’s importance to Panama’s economy and its exposure to global crises.
The Panama Canal stands to gain as shipping companies look for safer alternatives to routes affected by tensions in the Strait of Hormuz. The shift highlights the canal’s continued importance to global trade and Panama’s economy.
Heavy vessel traffic is putting pressure on the Panama Canal, a vital trade corridor that underpins the country’s economy. The congestion highlights the canal’s central role in global shipping and Panama’s logistics sector.
Panama has been highlighted for a strong reduction in its fiscal deficit, alongside a more targeted approach to public investment. The move reflects a broader effort to strengthen fiscal management while protecting key spending priorities.
Panama awarded 22.6 TWh in a major electricity tender, reshaping the competitive landscape for power suppliers. The result reinforces the country’s growing focus on renewable energy and market planning.
The Panama Canal is seeing a demand boost as Middle East tensions push more shipping traffic toward safer and more predictable routes. The shift underscores the canal’s strategic importance to Panama’s economy.