Coverage of Panama’s corporate world, markets, startups, and trade developments. We provide news, analysis, and practical insights for business leaders and entrepreneurs.
Balboa Corp has launched Panama’s first stablecoin aimed at global trade payments, marking a new step in the country’s digital finance sector. The move aligns with Panama’s role as a regional hub for logistics and commerce.
Panama’s housing tax debate is raising broader questions about economic activity, affordability, and the role of both government and private business. The discussion centers on how to protect construction while keeping access to dignified housing within reach.
The World Bank has lowered Panama’s 2026 growth forecast to 3.9% and warned that rising debt and inflation remain key risks. The country’s logistics role offers support, but global uncertainty is slowing the outlook.
Panama’s housing sector is warning that the 2% ITBI on new homes could raise prices, cut sales and weaken construction jobs. Convivienda and economists say the measure may exclude more families from the market at a time of already weak demand.
Panama is pushing back in a mounting dispute with China after canceling a Hong Kong company’s contract to operate ports along the Panama Canal. The decision has intensified pressure on the country as it balances ties with Washington and Beijing.
Aurelio Barría has taken office as the new president of Panama’s Chamber of Commerce, Industries and Agriculture. He pledged commitment to the private sector and to the country as he succeeded Juan Arias.
Panama’s real estate sector fell more than 30% in 2025 compared with the previous year, according to Convivienda director Elisa Suárez. The slowdown underscores weaker demand and broader pressure on housing and construction activity.
Panama’s rice producers are asking the government to extend fuel and fertilizer subsidies to agriculture, arguing it would help keep production costs from pushing up food prices. The sector says farmers should receive the same consideration already given to transport workers.
A proposed $10 tax on transit passengers is sparking concern in Panama over possible damage to Tocumen Airport and the country’s hub economy. Critics warn the measure could drive travelers and airlines to competing airports in the region.
President José Raúl Mulino delivered a blunt anti-corruption message during the swearing-in of the new Chamber of Commerce president. His comments emphasized a government without influence peddling or corrupt ministers.
A CK Hutchison unit has launched arbitration against Maersk in a dispute tied to Panama port takeover activity. The case underscores the strategic importance of Panama’s port assets in global shipping.
Panama faces a growing call to diversify beyond services and build stronger local economic linkages through industry, agro-business and logistics. The proposal urges policies that turn foreign investment into more formal jobs and domestic value added.
Panama Canal congestion is lifting auction fees for very large gas carriers as shipping demand strains transit capacity. The pressure underscores the canal’s ongoing importance to global energy trade.
Aurelio Barría Pino assumed leadership of Panama’s Chamber of Commerce with a call to confront corruption, create decent jobs and manage any mine reopening under clear rules. He said the country must turn economic confidence into growth that reaches MiPymes and households.
Panama Ports Company has escalated its dispute with Maersk and the Panamanian state after the government’s takeover of its port concession. The fight underscores the economic and political stakes surrounding Panama’s strategic port infrastructure.
The TV competition Jump has returned in Panama with a new season focused on entrepreneurship. More than 2,000 projects were submitted, but only eight were selected to advance.
CK Hutchison has launched arbitration in London against Maersk in a dispute over Panama ports, drawing attention to the strategic value of the country’s maritime infrastructure. The case highlights the global importance of port assets linked to the Panama Canal.
Confidential meetings in Panama are facing new risks as everyday devices make it easier to record or transmit sensitive conversations. Organizations are being urged to adopt stronger controls to protect boardroom and government deliberations.
CK Hutchison and Maersk are moving to arbitration over a dispute linked to ports serving the Panama Canal. The case highlights the strategic importance of Panama’s maritime infrastructure and logistics sector.
Aurelio Barría Pino has assumed the presidency of Panama’s Chamber of Commerce, Industries and Agriculture for the 2026–2027 term. The role places him at the center of private-sector advocacy in one of the country’s most important business groups.