Coverage of Panama’s corporate world, markets, startups, and trade developments. We provide news, analysis, and practical insights for business leaders and entrepreneurs.
Labor Day in Panama highlighted a clear shift in how many people earn a living, with freelance work, digital platforms and entrepreneurship gaining ground. The trend points to a more flexible but changing labor market.
Panama’s OECD ambitions are being linked to a broader reform agenda focused on productivity, innovation and diversification. The push highlights informality, weak R&D and the need to modernize the state.
Copa Airlines has ordered 60 Boeing 737 MAX jets, a major fleet expansion that reinforces Panama’s role as a regional aviation hub. The move supports the airline’s network growth across the Americas and strengthens connectivity through Panama City.
Senacyt won approval for $10.87 million in extra funding to soften a 2026 budget cut that hit research, training and infrastructure. The money will support scientific programs, cancer research and key innovation centers across Panama.
China has accepted that the Panama port dispute should be settled through arbitration in New York, President José Raúl Mulino said. The announcement comes as Panamanian-flagged ship detentions in Chinese ports have risen sharply.
Panama challenged Iran to explain the detention of the crew of the Panama-flagged MSC Francesca and condemned what it called unilateral action. The case underscores the diplomatic weight of Panama’s ship registry.
Panama’s maritime and logistics sector has rejected a proposal to add a surcharge to containers entering the country to fund pension adjustments. Industry leaders warn the measure could raise costs in a key part of the national economy.
Panama is under pressure to pass an Economic Substance law before key 2026 deadlines tied to the European Union and the Global Forum. The debate is centered on compliance, tax certainty, and protecting competitiveness.
Panama’s public-private partnership model is being positioned as a driver of formal employment through major infrastructure and agro-industrial projects. Several initiatives scheduled for 2026 and 2027 could generate thousands of direct and indirect jobs.
Panama’s growing demand for formal jobs is putting major infrastructure, mining, and energy projects at the center of the national economic debate. The push is tied to investment, training, and the need to reduce informality.
Copa Airlines has placed a new Boeing aircraft order as it prepares for major fleet growth. The move strengthens Panama’s role as a regional air hub centered on Panama City.
Checkpoints in Colón have sparked debate between authorities and the business sector over their impact on security and commercial activity. A formal statement or meeting is expected in the coming days.
President José Raúl Mulino said a port issue in Panama has been pulled into the U.S.-China rivalry, highlighting the country’s strategic role in global trade. The dispute underscores how Panama’s ports and canal-linked infrastructure can become geopolitical flashpoints.
Panama has proposed extending tax benefits for Ciudad del Saber through December 31, 2027. The move would keep incentives in place while officials review a longer-term policy path.
ENA SUR has moved the prequalification opening for the South Corridor expansion project to the Sheraton Grand Panama on May 5, 2026. The process covers studies, design and construction for one of Panama City’s key road arteries.
Panama’s president said a key port has become entangled in U.S.-China tensions, underscoring the country’s role as a strategic trade hub. The dispute highlights Panama’s challenge of balancing relations with both powers.
President José Raúl Mulino says a Panamanian port has become caught in the US-China rivalry, highlighting the country’s strategic role in global trade. The dispute underscores growing pressure on Panama’s critical infrastructure.
Panama’s president said a port deal has become part of the growing U.S.-China rivalry, underscoring the country’s strategic role in global trade. The comments highlight the political weight of Panama’s ports and Canal-linked infrastructure.
Panama President Jose Raul Mulino said a port has become entangled in the US-China dispute, highlighting the country’s strategic role in global trade. The comments reflect Panama’s challenge of balancing major-power interests around its canal and port network.
Copa Airlines is expanding its fleet with a new Boeing aircraft order, a move that could strengthen Panama City’s role as a major regional hub. The plan highlights the airline’s confidence in future demand and Panama’s aviation sector.