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 become the latest pressure point in U.S.-China tensions after remarks tied to the U.S. ambassador in Panama triggered a sharp response from Beijing over Huawei. The dispute highlights the country’s strategic role in global trade and diplomacy.
Tocumen International Airport is in preliminary talks with CNO S.A. about repairing Terminal 2 taxiway damage, even as the company still owes more than $30 million from an arbitration award. The airport is also preparing a separate $15 million claim tied to the same infrastructure failures.
EFC Group has launched APRÉS in Coco del Mar, a 50-level residential tower built around wellness, recovery and premium amenities. The project combines apartments, coworking, recreation and green spaces in one gated community.
Sea salt production in Coclé has reached 50%, but producers are facing sales challenges tied to climate change, imports and raw salt sales. The situation is adding pressure to a traditional local industry.
Panama’s fiscal policy is facing a sharp debate over how much OECD tax standards should shape the country’s economic strategy. The key challenge is balancing transparency with the incentives that help Panama compete for investment.
Panama’s unanimous approval of a tripartite construction working table has renewed attention on using school repairs to create jobs and strengthen the economy. The proposal links public education needs with a practical plan for economic activity.
Panamanian consumers are becoming more price-sensitive as inflation and easier access to information change buying habits. Businesses face a market where value, not just price, is shaping demand.
Panama is facing renewed pressure as US-China tensions intensify over Chinese-linked investment and visa threats connected to the canal’s strategic importance. The dispute highlights how the country’s global shipping role continues to draw major-power attention.
The IMA is promoting its agro-fairs for May 5 and 6, inviting residents to buy national products and support local producers. The events continue to play a key role in connecting Panamanians with affordable food options.
Panama’s construction and housing groups are urging a review of the new 2% ITBI applied to first-time home purchases. They warn the tax could deepen the country’s housing access crisis and slow economic activity in construction.
The National Assembly has opened extraordinary sessions to debate the Economic Substance bill over the coming weeks. The proposal is important for Panama’s business rules, regulatory oversight, and international economic standing.
Panama approved a World Bank-backed plan to modernize its cadastre, digitize land records, and speed up property titling over a seven-year period. The $95 million first phase aims to improve state land tracking, cut delays, and support major infrastructure planning.
Panama’s National Assembly economy committee will hold a June 11 public consultation on a bill that would require multinationals to prove they operate in the country. The hearing is expected to draw public, private and civil society participants.
Tigo plans to invest US$100 million in Panama and is considering a new data center as it expands in the country’s growing telecom market. The move underscores rising demand for digital infrastructure and connectivity.
Gourmet Fest will run from July 30 to August 30, bringing up to 150 restaurants in Panama and the provinces together for three-course menus at special prices. The event aims to boost dining, tourism and Panama’s culinary profile.
Panama’s Law 473 requires businesses to display prices with ITBMS included, making the final amount clearer for shoppers. The change aims to improve transparency at checkout and in advertising.
Capac and Conep have backed an Assembly-created technical table to help reactivate Panama’s construction sector. Conep says a stronger industry could help cut unemployment to around 9.7% and bring it back below 10%.
Panama is confronting rising tension with the United States over Chinese investment and claims of visa threats aimed at officials with company ties. The dispute follows a Supreme Court ruling and adds pressure to a sensitive diplomatic balance.
Panama will host the second CAVEX Summit in 2026, bringing together business and government leaders to discuss investment, Venezuelan entrepreneurship, and regional integration. The event underscores Panama’s role as a hub for Latin American commerce and cooperation.
Panama’s latest power bidding process produced unusually low prices, prompting fresh debate over competition, market stability, and future investment. The result highlights how auction design can shape electricity costs in the country.