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 being positioned as a possible regional hub for data and AI services tied to Latin America’s critical minerals boom. The proposal hinges on connectivity, digital incentives, and workforce training.
Panama will invest more than B/.6 million in tourism-related projects, including maintenance for Atlapa, a Bocas del Toro trail and the Chitré Convention Center. The spending aims to support travel, events and local economic activity across multiple regions.
Panama has emerged in Spain’s probe into the Plus Ultra airline rescue through a Panamanian securities firm tied to an earlier loan that helped the carrier qualify for bailout funds. The case underscores how Panama-registered companies can become part of high-profile international corruption and financing investigations.
Renters moving in with pets should review lease terms carefully, since rules on breed, size, deposits, and monthly pet fees can vary widely. Clear questions before signing can help avoid surprise costs and housing disputes.
Panama City has approved temporary late-night hours for eligible restaurants during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, aiming to boost tourism, sales and nightlife activity. The permit runs from June 11 to July 19, 2026, with a B/.500 fee and QR-coded certification for enforcement.
Panama is working to win back EU confidence in its fishing sector ahead of a new audit expected this year. Officials say stronger monitoring, traceability and fleet controls could pave the way to a green card and wider seafood access in Europe.
The Panama Canal is bracing for possible water shortages as NOAA forecasts a 98% chance of El Niño. The climate shift could affect canal operations, which depend on freshwater reserves in Panama’s watershed.
Google is redesigning Search with Gemini 3.5 Flash, introducing a more conversational, multimodal interface that will roll out globally where AI Mode is available. The shift could affect how people in Panama search, shop and find information online.
Hyundai’s use of an ocean-to-ocean rail route highlights growing competition for cargo that might otherwise move through the Panama Canal. For Panama, the trend underscores why the canal must keep adapting to changing global shipping patterns.
A Spanish court has ordered the return of more than $64 million to Shakira after annulling a 2011 tax penalty tied to her residency dispute. The ruling marks another major twist in the singer’s long-running clash with Spain’s tax authorities.
Fitch Ratings has upgraded Banesco Panamá to A+ (pan) with a stable outlook, the bank’s highest national rating to date. The move reflects stronger financial performance, liquidity, and funding stability as the lender marks 19 years in Panama.
Panama’s Assembly has restarted debate on a bill to tighten tax substance rules for foreign income, as business leaders urge lawmakers to act. Apede says the reform is key to improving Panama’s reputation and reducing international risk.
A marina project on Flamenco Island near the Panama Canal is drawing scrutiny over direct concessions, public land use, and possible conflicts of interest. The case highlights broader questions about transparency in valuable coastal developments in Amador.
Fitch Ratings has upgraded Banesco Panamá to A+ (pan), the bank’s highest local rating since entering the market 19 years ago. The move reflects stronger financial performance, solid liquidity and a stable outlook.
Cocoa producers in Bocas del Toro are exploring chocolate processing as a way to earn far more than by selling dried beans alone. The move could boost rural income and strengthen Panama’s specialty food sector.
Vladimir Putin arrived in Beijing for a two-day visit centered on Ukraine, the Middle East, and energy cooperation with Xi Jinping. The meeting highlights the growing strategic alignment between Russia and China.
Jonathan Andic, son of Mango founder Isak Andic, was released on €1 million bail in Spain as investigators continue a homicide probe into his father’s 2024 death. The court also imposed a passport surrender, travel ban, and weekly check-ins.
Grupo CRS is expanding its Panama operations while reinforcing ties with U.S. business interests after a visit from Ambassador Kevin Cabrera. The move highlights the role of mobility services in tourism, jobs and investment.
Panama added 73,733 formal jobs in 2025, led by the private sector for the first time in years. The shift comes after a long cycle of state-driven employment growth financed by rising debt.
Panama City has awarded a B/. 2.56 million contract to remodel Calle Estudiante, with upgrades planned for accessibility, lighting, landscaping and urban furniture. The project is part of the municipality’s wider effort to modernize busy public spaces in the capital.