Coverage of Panama’s corporate world, markets, startups, and trade developments. We provide news, analysis, and practical insights for business leaders and entrepreneurs.
Escalating tensions in the Strait of Hormuz are pushing up shipping-related costs that also affect Panama Canal routes. The disruption underscores how global conflicts can quickly ripple through Panama’s maritime economy.
LONGi highlighted how anti-shading technology helped improve a solar project in Panama, underscoring the importance of resilient equipment in challenging site conditions. The example points to growing interest in solar solutions suited to the country’s tropical environment.
Panama Canal auction prices have quadrupled as the closure of the Strait of Hormuz shifts global energy shipping routes. The spike highlights the canal’s growing strategic value in a strained maritime network.
Tropigas has adopted Creatio to modernize mission-critical energy operations in Panama. The move reflects the growing use of digital tools to improve efficiency in essential services.
Star Princess has completed its first transit of the Panama Canal, marking a major milestone for Princess Cruises. The voyage underscores the canal’s enduring importance as a global maritime and tourism landmark.
The Panama Canal Authority said a recent high-priced auction for an LPG vessel reflects market conditions, not a fixed canal fee. Traffic has risen as the Iran war disrupts trade routes and increases demand for canal transits.
Princess Cruises’ new Star Princess completed its first Panama Canal transit during its delivery voyage, marking an important early milestone for the ship. The crossing also highlights Panama’s continuing importance in global cruise travel.
Copa Airlines is preparing a major 2026 push focused on expanding its regional network, enhancing digital service and reinforcing Panama’s role as a leading air hub. The strategy underscores how central Tocumen and aviation remain to the country’s connectivity and economy.
Panama Canal auction prices have quadrupled as shippers scramble for faster transit amid shifting global energy routes. The surge highlights the canal’s growing importance in volatile maritime markets.
Panama lawmakers are questioning a sharp rise in exceptional public contracts, which reached $1.237 billion in just 15 months. A new bill seeks to tighten the rules and curb the use of the emergency procurement channel.
The Panama Canal Authority says traffic is rising and auction prices are climbing, but it rejects claims of congestion or major delays. Global energy shifts are pushing more vessels to seek transit through Panama.
Panama is weighing whether a tightly regulated system could let select foreign professionals work temporarily in the country. Supporters say the model could strengthen local talent while boosting competitiveness.
Panama’s short-lived decree on ride-hailing has revived the debate over how to regulate digital transport platforms without protecting entrenched interests. The next framework will be judged on whether it improves safety, competition, and access, or creates new barriers.
The IMA agreed to buy 30,000 quintals of frijol chiricano from Chiriquí producers for $1.9 million, easing pressure on farmers facing a difficult sales season. The beans will move through packaging and canning channels and be sold in IMA outlets.
Panama’s government has repealed Executive Decree 10, which aimed to regulate digital transport platforms, and created a commission to draft a new proposal in 90 days. The decision has stirred reactions across the country’s transport sector.
Panama’s labor market is failing many young people, with youth unemployment running well above the national average and nearly half of workers in informality. The mismatch between education and employer needs is deepening the problem.
Panama has repealed Executive Decree 10, which aimed to regulate digital transport platforms, and launched a 90-day consultation process. A working commission will now draft a new proposal with input from all sides.
Commercial activity is increasing at the Azuero fairgrounds as organizers prepare for the International Fair of Azuero, which could attract more than 300,000 visitors. The event runs from April 23 to May 3.
Panama is seeking clarity after detentions of Panamanian-flagged ships at Chinese ports rose 400%. Vice Foreign Minister Carlos Ruiz said the government hopes the issue is technical, not political.
Cruise tourism tied to the Panama Canal is expanding, adding momentum to Panama’s travel economy and reinforcing the canal’s appeal as a global attraction. The trend supports ports, local businesses, and the country’s broader tourism brand.