Coverage of Panama’s corporate world, markets, startups, and trade developments. We provide news, analysis, and practical insights for business leaders and entrepreneurs.
President José Raúl Mulino said Panama is entering a temporary transition in port management after a Supreme Court ruling and promised new concessions. He also announced technical support for the Bridge of the Americas after a nearby fire and reviewed plans for old waterfront tank facilities.
President José Raúl Mulino said there is no active operating contract with Maersk, clarifying that port management is under a temporary transition while the Panama Ports Company dispute goes to arbitration.
The Panama Canal has signed a new collective agreement covering salary adjustments for captains and officers. It also sets 2% annual increases for Navigation Channel Maintenance Division staff from 2029 through 2033.
Copa Airlines plans to raise capacity by 14% in 2026, expand its fleet and routes, and create more than 2,100 direct jobs in Panama over four years. The carrier also expects to carry 20.9 million passengers next year and operate 500 daily flights by 2029.
Mobile casinos are reshaping Panama’s betting market and putting new attention on digital infrastructure, regulation, and tech-driven job creation. The trend also highlights how online entertainment is becoming part of the country’s broader economic transition.
Panama’s economy grew 4.4% in 2025, with GDP reaching B/.84.75 billion. Transportation and logistics led the expansion, accounting for 40% of growth.
President José Raúl Mulino said Panama is not looking to confront China over vessels held there, but will not let the situation drag on. He linked the issue to maritime security reviews and broader impacts on global shipping.
Felipe Chapman said Panama’s Finance Ministry is willing to review Convivienda’s technical case against extending the 2% transfer tax to new homes. The housing sector warns the change could slow mortgages, cut construction activity, and reduce overall tax revenue.
Panama is reviewing the Americas Bridge after this week’s fire while also assessing whether to remove fuel tanks and rethink valuable Canal-side land use. The moves could affect safety, infrastructure planning, and long-term development near the Canal.
Panama is moving ahead with a new approach to the Margarita port project after canceling its concession. The revised path could allow the terminal to advance before the current bidding process ends.
The Panama Canal remains a cornerstone of Panama’s economy and a critical route in global trade. Its strategic location and shipping efficiency continue to make it one of the country’s most valuable assets.
The Panama Canal has signed a new collective agreement with deck captains and officers that includes annual salary increases through 2033. The deal also adds new rest rules and compensation changes aimed at improving safety and stability.
President José Raúl Mulino visited Balboa for the first time under APM Terminals’ operation as Panama reviews port concessions, bridge safety and fuel tank risks near the Canal zone. The government is also preparing for Panama Ports Company’s arbitration while pushing ahead with infrastructure and security priorities.
President Jose Raul Mulino moved to calm tensions with China after a sharper comment from Panama’s foreign minister. The shift suggests Panama is trying to protect a key diplomatic and economic relationship.
Panama’s National Lottery moved the April 8 midweek drawing to Thursday, April 9. The schedule change also puts attention on prize validity periods for ticket holders.
CK Hutchison’s Panama ports unit has launched arbitration against Maersk in a dispute tied to a ports takeover. The case highlights the strategic importance of Panama’s port infrastructure and logistics sector.
President José Raúl Mulino said Panama is advancing in tourism, logistics and economic growth, while urging more transparency and better management of public works. The CCIAP’s new president also outlined priorities focused on youth jobs, entrepreneurs and event tourism.
CK Hutchison has opened London arbitration against Maersk over a Panama Canal port takeover dispute, highlighting the strategic value of canal-linked port assets. The case puts Panama’s key shipping infrastructure back in the global spotlight.
CK Hutchison has launched London arbitration against Maersk over a dispute tied to Panama Canal port assets. The case highlights the strategic importance of Panama’s canal-linked logistics sector.
CK Hutchison has accused Maersk of a “scheme” connected to a Panama port takeover, intensifying a dispute over strategically vital canal-linked assets. The clash highlights the economic and geopolitical importance of Panama’s port infrastructure.