Coverage of Panama’s corporate world, markets, startups, and trade developments. We provide news, analysis, and practical insights for business leaders and entrepreneurs.
WTI crude closed above $100 a barrel for the first time since 2022 as the Middle East war and renewed threats to shipping routes fueled market anxiety. The price spike reflects growing fears over disruptions to global oil supply.
The Panama Canal Authority has extended the prequalification document deadline for the Corozal, Telfers and gas pipeline tender to June 8. The change gives bidders more time to prepare for a major infrastructure process tied to Panama’s logistics sector.
Panama’s ATTT has delivered the first 2026–2030 vehicle plates after months of delay, starting with nearly 20,000 units for the Municipality of Panama. The rollout should gradually ease the shortage that forced thousands of drivers to rely on temporary permits.
SF Group of Sweden has unveiled Port Amador, a new superyacht marina project in Panama near the Pacific entrance to the Panama Canal. The development highlights Panama’s growing role as a strategic base for global yachting.
China has denied retaliating against Panama’s shipping sector after Panama canceled a port concession linked to a Chinese company. The dispute has also drawn in Washington, which welcomed Panama’s move, deepening geopolitical tensions around the canal.
The United States is monitoring a rise in detentions of Panama-flagged ships in Chinese ports amid a broader legal dispute involving CK Hutchison and Panama. The case could have implications for maritime trade and Panama’s ship registry.
Panama’s Ministry of Economy and Finance says it will dissolve 26,000 legal entities before March 31 as part of a registry cleanup. The official list is available online for consultation.
The Panama Canal Authority has pushed back deadlines in the prequalification process for two new port terminals and a gas pipeline. The projects aim to expand Panama’s logistics capacity and attract major global operators.
Panama has begun a new customs control phase requiring export and re-export declarations when goods leave the country. The change affects Free Zone trade procedures and compliance.
The Panama Canal Authority has updated prequalification documents for its energy corridor and terminal projects, extending key deadlines through June 8, 2026. The changes are meant to clarify the process and support the Canal’s long-term logistics strategy.
Security around the Panama Canal remains a strategic priority in Washington-Panama discussions, reflecting the waterway’s global trade importance. The canal continues to play a central role in regional economic stability.
The Panama Canal is seeing about 10% more ship crossings than budgeted as the Middle East crisis pushes more vessels to the route. Officials say the increase is already lifting tonnage and revenue above plan.
Two Chinese container ships have crossed the Strait of Hormuz on a second attempt, signaling a limited resumption of traffic through a vital shipping lane disrupted by war. The move could have broader implications for global trade and freight routes, including those tied to Panama.
U.S. officials are monitoring a reported increase in detentions of Panama-flagged ships in Chinese ports. The trend could have implications for global shipping and Panama’s maritime registry.
Cutty Ranks is reportedly seeking unpaid royalties connected to the global hit ‘Dame Tu Cosita.’ The dispute could have major financial implications, though details remain limited.
Investors are reportedly turning toward Panama as oil market expectations rise, highlighting the country’s strategic role in global trade. The article does not name specific deals, but it points to broader market interest linked to higher energy prices.
Latin American countries are taking different paths a year after Trump’s tariffs reshaped trade with the United States. Some have been hit hard, while others have found ways to redirect exports or negotiate relief.
China denied retaliating against Panama-flagged ships and accused Washington of trying to seize control of the Panama Canal. The dispute has escalated after Panama removed a Hong Kong-linked operator from key port concessions.
Panama’s Secretariat of Energy says the delay in introducing a bioethanol fuel blend is not tied to the bill under debate in the National Assembly. The agency says the proposal is intended to create an updated legal framework for a gradual rollout.
Shipping companies are facing billions in extra fuel costs as oil prices rise after the Middle East war, according to Transport & Environment. The group says the shock is also improving the case for cleaner marine fuels and efficiency measures.