Coverage of national economic trends, policy decisions, and indicators that affect everyday life. We provide analysis of fiscal policy, employment, and growth drivers.
A Panamanian-flagged tanker has surfaced in coverage of Russian oil trade as a U.S. waiver expires, highlighting Panama’s place in global shipping. The case underscores how the country’s registry can become part of major international energy and sanctions disputes.
Cuba’s cigar industry is under new pressure after the Trump administration blocked foreign oil deliveries to the island, worsening fuel shortages and economic strain. The move could ripple through Cuba’s exports and broader regional diplomacy.
Panama City Mayor Mayer Mizrachi visited Mercado El Cruce to meet with microentrepreneurs and hear their concerns about market organization, growth and formalization. He reaffirmed City Hall’s support for small businesses through closer, on-the-ground engagement.
Transport operators in Azuero welcomed the government’s fuel subsidy as a helpful measure for easing operating costs. The decision is especially significant in a region where road transport is essential for daily mobility and local commerce.
Restaurants in Panama are reporting a steep drop in delivery orders after PedidosYa-affiliated motorcyclists began a work stoppage over pay and conditions. The disruption has affected merchants and customers across the platform’s large network in the country.
CONEP president Gabriel Diez said Panama’s fuel subsidy should be monitored so it helps prevent higher prices for consumer goods. The business sector sees oversight as key to making sure the benefit reaches transport workers and supports the supply chain.
Italian Chambers of Commerce met in Panama to refine regional investment plans and deepen trade ties with Latin American markets. The summit highlighted Panama’s role as a strategic hub for cross-border business cooperation.
Panama’s tax authority suspended legal and administrative deadlines for taxpayers from April 15 through April 17, with terms resuming on April 20. The move affects compliance timing and other procedural obligations.
Naturgy will carry out planned electricity interruptions in Panama and several provinces through April 19 for maintenance work. The outages are expected to affect homes and businesses across affected areas.
Transport drivers in Azuero and Chiriquí welcomed a new fuel subsidy as a financial relief, but the rollout was slowed by platform problems and long lines. Operators said the benefit helps, though it remains limited.
China’s export slowdown is drawing attention to Panama’s shipping sector as global carriers face pressure tied to port operations in the country. The trend highlights how closely Panama’s logistics economy is linked to international trade flows.
Panama’s ports are drawing attention again as reported pressure mounts on Maersk and MSC, while slowing Chinese exports add strain to global shipping. The developments underscore Panama’s central role in international trade and logistics.
Shoppers packed the Dolega agrofair as rice became the product drawing the most attention amid fears of further price increases. The turnout highlights consumer concern over the cost of a key household staple.
Panama’s Ministry of Public Works says the Bridge of the Americas remains safe after inspection and that the 10-ton weight limit will continue. The crossing stays open, with heavier vehicles still required to use other routes.
Authorities reiterated that informal street vending is banned on the Amador Causeway, allowing only handicraft sales under specific conditions. The rule reinforces efforts to keep one of Panama City’s busiest public spaces orderly and tourist-friendly.
Panama is being positioned as a country with room to grow its economy through science and artificial intelligence. The strategy could help diversify growth beyond traditional services and logistics.
Panama’s Ministry of Economy and Finance reaffirmed that informal food and beverage sales are banned on Calzada de Amador under Executive Decree No. 40. Authorities said control operations will continue in the tourist area.
Panama will reactivate a tourist insurance policy in 2026 for visitors arriving by air, after the government approved funds to restore the benefit. The move is part of efforts to support tourism and strengthen the country’s appeal to international travelers.
Panama’s transport fuel subsidy has started with more than 600 beneficiaries and over 21,000 registered operators. Officials say the program is designed to ease operating costs and prevent fare increases for passengers.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has completed a preliminary technical assessment of Panama’s Bridge of the Americas, a vital crossing over the Panama Canal. The review highlights the bridge’s importance to national transportation and infrastructure planning.