Coverage of Panama’s corporate world, markets, startups, and trade developments. We provide news, analysis, and practical insights for business leaders and entrepreneurs.
Panama President Jose Raul Mulino adopted a conciliatory tone to ease rising tensions with China, underscoring the importance of the relationship to Panama’s trade and diplomacy. The move reflects Panama’s effort to protect economic and strategic interests tied to the Canal and global commerce.
Panama’s foreign minister has accused China of retaliating in a dispute tied to the canal, sharpening tensions over sovereignty and port control. The row reflects growing pressure on Panama as global powers compete for influence around a vital shipping route.
U.S. Gold Corp. will take part in the inaugural Swiss Mining Institute conference in Panama City on April 15-16. The event highlights the capital’s growing role as a regional business hub for international industry meetings.
Panama’s upcoming mining conference on April 15 will feature the CEO of U.S. Gold Corporation, highlighting ongoing interest in the country’s mining sector. The event comes as mining remains a major economic and political topic in Panama.
Panama is pushing back amid a dispute tied to the Panama Canal, highlighting the country’s effort to defend sovereignty over a vital global trade route. The row underscores how the canal remains central to Panama’s diplomacy, economy, and strategic position.
Watermelon and melon exports are creating jobs in rural Panama and supporting economic activity in inland communities. Officials and producers in Herrera also discussed incentives, technology and the need for better data to guide future policy.
A Hong Kong company has accused Maersk of teaming up with Panama in a bid tied to ports at both ends of the Panama Canal. The dispute highlights the strategic value of canal-linked infrastructure.
Panama has added a 2% tax on new homes, increasing costs for buyers in the primary housing market. The change affects Panamanians earning above $1,000 and excludes used homes.
Maersk has responded to Panama Ports Company’s dispute as arbitration proceeds over an alleged port takeover. The case highlights the importance of Panama’s port sector to trade, investment, and logistics.
Panama’s exporters are facing added pressure from higher oil prices and geopolitical tensions, according to Apex president Arturo Siu. Even so, the sector sees new growth opportunities as Panamanian goods reach fresh markets.
A CK Hutchison unit has taken Maersk to arbitration in a dispute linked to port operations in Panama. The case highlights the strategic importance of the country’s terminal and logistics sector.
A former operator of the Balboa port at the Panama Canal has filed a claim against Maersk, escalating a dispute over control of a key terminal. The case highlights the strategic importance of Panama’s port infrastructure to global shipping.
Panama Ports Company has filed arbitration against Maersk, escalating a commercial dispute with potential implications for Panama’s port and logistics sector. The case underscores the country’s role as a global shipping hub.
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.