Coverage of national economic trends, policy decisions, and indicators that affect everyday life. We provide analysis of fiscal policy, employment, and growth drivers.
A disruption in the Strait of Hormuz is threatening jet fuel supplies in Europe and Asia, raising the risk of higher airfares and flight cuts. The fallout could also reach Latin America through global route and price pressures.
Panama’s bunker sales rose 12.1% in March from February, pushing first-quarter volumes to 1.43 million metric tons, the highest since late 2024. The quarterly total was also up 2.7% year on year.
Panama’s Budget Committee approved a $30 million transfer to fund the fuel subsidy program through the Ministry of Economy and Finance. The move keeps a key relief measure in place for consumers and businesses affected by fuel costs.
Expo Vivienda Capac 2026 opened in Panama City with more than 300 housing projects and a focus on mortgage access, buyer demand, and sector recovery. Organizers expect the fair to drive thousands of visits and millions in home financing transactions.
A shipowner paid US$4 million to jump the line at the Panama Canal, reflecting intense demand and the value of faster transit through the key global trade route. The payment highlights how congestion can drive up the price of priority access.
Panama has issued new rules for digital platform transport, giving the ATTT responsibility for regulation, control, oversight, and registration. The move brings ride-hailing services under a clearer official framework.
IMA announced agroferias for April 17 and reminded shoppers to bring their cédula to keep the food sales organized. The events will offer low-cost food to consumers in Panama.
MIDA carried out a bat control operation in southern Veraguas and also inspected cattle for screwworm, offering livestock producers combined animal-health support. The effort focused on protecting herds and strengthening veterinary oversight in the province.
Oil and gas tanker traffic through the Panama Canal has surged as shipping routes adjust to Middle East conflict. The shift reinforces the canal’s role as a critical link in global energy trade.
President José Raúl Mulino urged transport operators in Panama to register for the fuel subsidy to help keep passenger fares stable. The move is aimed at easing operating costs and preventing fare increases for commuters.
Panama will slightly adjust fuel prices from April 17, with 95-octane gasoline falling and low-sulfur diesel rising by one cent per liter. The government is also expanding fuel subsidy coverage to fishing and food transport sectors.
A vessel paid $4 million to jump ahead in Panama Canal traffic as congestion tightened access to one of the world’s busiest trade routes. The case highlights the high stakes of delays in global shipping.
The University of Panama approved a partial payment in the third phase of a salary adjustment for administrative staff. The decision affects a key segment of the university’s workforce.
Panama’s Agriculture Minister Roberto Linares says the country has enough rice in inventory to meet demand until about October. He added that rice imports will not be allowed while supplies remain sufficient.
Panama’s rice producers are seeking talks with the government over high fertilizer costs, hoping for an agreement that brings more reasonable prices. The move reflects growing pressure on farming costs and domestic food production.
Drivers in Panama Norte say subsidized fuel will only last them about three days, and they are urging authorities to rethink the measure. They say rising fuel costs have forced them to work longer hours to keep earnings afloat.
Panama’s National Chamber of Transportation is waiting for a solution to the fuel subsidy cap issue, which is affecting sector operations. The dispute underscores the pressure fuel policy can place on transport services and commuters.
Panama’s Ministry of Economy and Finance says the Cepanim registration platform is in final testing and should go live in the coming days. Authorities plan to print certificates in May and begin deliveries in June.
Panama’s Budget Committee approved $30 million for a fuel subsidy aimed at transport operators, with the government potentially spending up to $100 million. The measure seeks to partially stabilize prices for 91- and 95-octane gasoline and low-sulfur diesel.
A ship reportedly paid $4 million to move ahead of a Panama Canal backlog, highlighting how costly delays can be on a vital global trade route. The case underscores the canal’s continued importance to shipping and Panama’s economy.