Coverage of Panama’s corporate world, markets, startups, and trade developments. We provide news, analysis, and practical insights for business leaders and entrepreneurs.
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.
CK Hutchison-linked Panama Ports Company has launched arbitration against Maersk over the takeover of the Balboa and Cristóbal port terminals. The dispute adds fresh uncertainty to two of Panama’s most strategic shipping facilities.
Marco Rubio accused China of bullying Panama-flagged ships amid a detention dispute tied to the Panama Canal. The case puts Panama’s global shipping role and flag registry under international scrutiny.
BDA disbursed B/.33.5 million in 2025 to support producers in Panama as it moves toward becoming the Instituto de Fomento Agropecuario. The financing underscores the bank’s role in agricultural development.
Maersk says it is not responsible for the claims filed by Panama Ports Company as the dispute over the Balboa and Cristóbal terminals moves to arbitration. The case stems from Panama’s Supreme Court ruling that voided PPC’s concession and triggered a new operating arrangement.
The Fourth Bridge over the Panama Canal has reached 35% overall completion, with foundation work already 75% finished. The project is a major infrastructure effort aimed at improving connectivity and easing traffic in the capital area.
Panama City canceled the bidding process for the $8 million renewal of Calle 50, saying the municipality must reprogram its investment budget. The project aimed to improve mobility, accessibility and public space along one of the capital’s busiest corridors.
Panama’s Ministry of Public Works will receive a detailed structural report on the Bridge of the Americas from US Army engineers next Monday. The review highlights the bridge’s importance as a critical link across the entrance to the Panama Canal.