Coverage of Panama’s corporate world, markets, startups, and trade developments. We provide news, analysis, and practical insights for business leaders and entrepreneurs.
Tocumen Airport increased passenger traffic 15% in the first quarter, surpassing 5.7 million travelers. Flights and air cargo also rose, reinforcing Panama’s role as a regional aviation hub.
Panama’s ATTT sent secretary general Justo Castañeda on vacation leave as authorities move to repeal a decree regulating transport apps. The decision adds political attention to the ongoing debate over ride-hailing and transit oversight.
Panama Canal queues have grown as tankers move ahead of grain ships, adding pressure to a vital global trade route. The delay could affect commodity shipping schedules and broader cargo flows.
Rising conflict risk in the Middle East is sending more ships toward the Panama Canal, increasing demand and pushing transit costs higher. The shift underscores the canal’s global importance in times of maritime disruption.
Panama is attracting more American retirees and investors with its U.S. dollar economy, tax-friendly reputation, and growing real estate market. The trend highlights the country’s appeal as a practical and financially attractive relocation destination.
Panama remains a top choice for retirees and investors drawn to its lifestyle appeal, international connections, and long-term value. Its role as a regional hub continues to strengthen its reputation as a place to settle and invest.
Shipping companies are rerouting vessels toward the Panama Canal as tensions affecting the Strait of Hormuz push them to seek safer passage. The shift highlights the canal’s strategic role in global trade and Panama’s importance as a maritime hub.
Tensions in the Strait of Hormuz are pushing up shipping costs and affecting trade routes linked to the Panama Canal. The canal remains a key pressure point as global carriers adjust to rising maritime risk.
Transit costs through the Panama Canal have climbed as Middle East tensions and the closing of the Strait of Hormuz disrupt global shipping. The change highlights how conflict in one region can raise costs for Panama’s key maritime corridor.
The Panama Canal Authority rejected the idea that a $4 million line-jumping payment was extraordinary, saying it reflected a rate set by the canal. The clarification comes as pricing and priority access at the waterway draw fresh attention.
A new debate over Panama’s concession contracts centers on whether the State should be paid from gross revenue instead of disputed profit calculations. The issue is gaining attention as contracts come up for renewal.
Rising tension in the Strait of Hormuz is pushing up shipping costs that can affect traffic through the Panama Canal. The pressure highlights how global security shocks can influence Panama’s economy even from afar.
Panamanians are facing higher living costs as food prices rise from a mix of fuel, climate, pest, and agrochemical pressures. The strain begins in agricultural production and ends with more expensive goods for consumers.
Panama’s cabinet has approved the import of 90,000 quintals of coffee to relieve a domestic shortage. The move is intended to stabilize supply for consumers and businesses.
Tensions in the Strait of Hormuz are lifting shipping costs and adding pressure on the Panama Canal, as carriers adjust routes and trade flows shift. The canal’s role as a global chokepoint makes it vulnerable to disruptions far beyond Panama’s borders.
Panama has approved the importation of 90,000 quintals of green coffee to address a domestic shortage, with a 3% tariff and a deadline of September 30, 2026. Officials say the measure is meant to ease supply pressure without harming local production.
Panama is confronting the economic fallout from the 2023 shutdown of First Quantum Minerals’ Cobre Panamá mine, with growth and jobs taking a hit. The closure has rippled through suppliers, workers and local businesses tied to one of the country’s biggest private projects.
Panama is grappling with the economic and labor-market damage left by the 2023 closure of First Quantum’s Cobre Panama mine. The shutdown has weighed on growth, jobs, and broader business activity.
Panama’s economic debate is centering on whether the country should prioritize costly mega-projects or invest first in jobs, water security, and strategic infrastructure. The discussion highlights pressure on public finances, the Canal, ports, and investment policy.
Panama’s logistics sector remains a strategic advantage, but rising global competition is forcing major hubs to modernize. The country’s future strength will depend on efficiency, technology and better internal connectivity.