Coverage of Panama’s corporate world, markets, startups, and trade developments. We provide news, analysis, and practical insights for business leaders and entrepreneurs.
Panama is moving to classify Uber and InDrive-style services as luxury taxis under a new regulatory framework. The change would place app-based transportation under tighter oversight by the ATTT.
Panama has issued new rules for luxury taxis booked through digital platforms, setting requirements for vehicles, drivers and oversight by the ATTT. The decree allows payments in cash or electronically and introduces stricter standards for safety and service quality.
Panama’s government and Canatra are backing a new decree regulating luxury taxis. The transport group is urging riders to trust the new framework.
Panama has introduced a new Taxi de Lujo category to regulate ride-hailing services like Uber and inDrive. The decree sets new rules for drivers and digital transport platforms.
Panama signed a cooperation agreement with the OECD in Paris to support policy benchmarking and attract more investment. The deal gives the country access to data exchange, expert missions, and evidence-based recommendations.
Tanker traffic through the Panama Canal has surged, underscoring the waterway’s role in global energy trade and Panama’s economy. The increase highlights the canal’s importance to shipping routes and national revenue.
Panama has issued a decree regulating digital platforms such as Uber, drawing criticism from Panama City Mayor Mayer Mizrachi, who says it hurts innovation. The move adds new rules to a fast-growing part of the country’s transport market.
Semana Dominicana 2026 opened in Panama with a trade and investment forum that showcased business opportunities, cultural exchange and tourism ties. Dominican officials also highlighted the Panama Canal and possible joint tourism projects.
The United States has lifted restrictions on Panamanian tuna after environmental certification, reopening access to a key export market. The move could strengthen Panama’s seafood sector and support tuna sales abroad.
Panama has joined the International Hydrographic Organization and will attend its Monaco assembly for the first time. The move strengthens the country’s role in maritime safety, charting, and global shipping cooperation.
Panama has approved a $5 million push to attract more charter flights, aiming to strengthen tourism and increase visitor spending. The move underscores the country’s focus on aviation as an engine for economic growth.
Panama bunker fuel sales rose in March, with VLSFO remaining the dominant fuel grade in the country’s maritime market. The increase highlights Panama’s continuing role as a key refueling hub for global shipping.
President José Raúl Mulino is moving to accelerate a Fiscal Code reform that Panama needs to advance toward removal from the European Union’s non-cooperative list. The proposal centers on economic substance rules for multinational companies and could go to extraordinary sessions.
Panama has activated a fuel subsidy platform for cargo transport and artisanal fishing. The system requires cargo operators to present a national ID and license plate.
Juan Carlos Orillac opened Capac Expo Vivienda 2026 in Panama City, where more than 300 housing projects are on display through April 19. The fair highlights government backing for the construction sector and its role in jobs and economic growth.
Oil tankers carrying US crude through the Panama Canal are nearing a four-year high as Asian refiners shift away from disrupted Middle Eastern supply routes. The trend underscores the canal’s importance in global energy trade.
Panama has introduced a new legal framework for luxury taxis ordered through digital platforms, placing the service under ATTT supervision. The decree sets vehicle, driver, and fare rules while limiting platforms to intermediary roles.
Panama is moving forward with renewable energy tenders as investor interest stays strong. The key test now is whether projects can be delivered on time and connected to the grid.
China has reportedly pressured Maersk and MSC to withdraw from Panama Canal ports, raising new questions about control over strategic shipping infrastructure. The reported move underscores the canal’s importance in global trade and geopolitics.
Rising tanker traffic linked to conflict in the Strait of Hormuz is raising concerns about delays through the Panama Canal. The pressure underscores the canal’s role as a crucial route for global energy shipments.