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 housing shortage is doing more than shutting families out of homeownership; it is also slowing construction, jobs and economic growth. The pressure is especially strong for lower- and middle-income households and in the country’s interior provinces.
Panama’s push to project itself as a modern hub continues to clash with slow, paper-based bureaucracy in parts of the state. Some institutions have advanced digitally, but others still resist deeper change.
Panama’s geographic position and open economy could give it a stronger role in global trade and energy as uncertainty rises. The key, according to this view, is preserving legal certainty and market openness.
Panama’s possible copper mine reopening is shaping up as a defining economic and political test for the government. Supporters argue it could restore jobs, revenue and investor confidence if a stronger contract and tighter environmental controls are secured.
Panama’s ports are drawing renewed attention as strategic assets in a broader regional power struggle over trade, investment, and influence. The issue underscores the country’s central role in global logistics and the Panama Canal economy.
Panama’s ship registry remains a major global asset, generating substantial state revenue and supporting a wide maritime ecosystem. New competitive pressures are pushing the country to improve service, compliance and technical support.
Panama’s new decree on digital ride-hailing platforms has triggered sharp criticism from lawmakers, former officials and users who say it protects traditional taxi interests. President José Raúl Mulino plans to meet transit and government authorities to review the concerns.
Motorizados linked to PedidosYa in Panama are moving to Uber Eats and Indrive as a pay dispute continues to disrupt delivery service. The protest has hit thousands of businesses and forced many restaurants to suspend deliveries.
Panama’s Chamber of Commerce says new investment is needed to keep jobs stable and expand formal employment. The warning underscores the country’s challenge of turning economic growth into lasting work for more people.
Panama’s Chamber of Commerce says stronger investment is essential to sustain jobs as unemployment stands at 10.4% and informality remains widespread. The warning highlights pressure on the labor market and the need for more formal employment.
Panama’s Public Procurement Authority has restarted the tender for the Plaza 5 de Mayo renewal project after a bid challenge paused the process. The review now returns to disputed technical and pricing details in the Gana-Oti proposal.
Metro de Panamá extended its Line 2 maintenance contract with Alstom Panamá through June 30, 2026, after the previous deal expired at the end of 2025. The agreement covers trains, signaling and substations for up to $4.33 million.
Panama’s business chamber says the country needs more investment to create sustainable jobs, as unemployment stands at 10.4% and informality remains high. The warning underscores pressure on the labor market and the need for more formal employment.
Apede has criticized Panama’s decree regulating digital transport platforms, saying it could weaken competition, free enterprise and service efficiency. The business group argues the rules risk pushing the market back toward less open models.
Rising oil prices tied to Middle East tensions are increasing costs in Panama, with effects on transport, inflation, and trade. The pressure also reaches the Canal and the country’s investment outlook.
Panama’s business chamber is calling for stronger economic activity to address 10.4% unemployment and widespread informality. The group says investment, execution and job access are key to expanding formal work.
Panama’s traditional raspadura makers are facing growing competition from cheaper imported panela sold in supermarkets. Producers and lawmakers are weighing how to protect a rural craft that is part of the country’s agro-food heritage.
Panama’s new digital transport decree is drawing criticism over fears it could restrict competition and favor a small group of operators. President José Raúl Mulino says he will review the measure.
Davivienda is sharpening its mortgage strategy in Panama, aiming to offer home buyers more competitive financing options. The move highlights how lending terms continue to shape affordability in the country’s housing market.
Panama’s foreign direct investment plunged 63% in 2025, underscoring concerns about governance, inequality, and weak institutional performance. The drop raises fresh questions about whether the country can turn its strategic advantages into sustained growth.