Coverage of national economic trends, policy decisions, and indicators that affect everyday life. We provide analysis of fiscal policy, employment, and growth drivers.
Authorities in Panama have again reminded vendors that informal food and drink sales are not allowed at Calzada de Amador. The warning comes after nearly two years of attempts to stop the practice in the popular Panama City recreational area.
The Feria Libre Municipal in Hatillo brought together fresh produce, crafts and specialty goods, while San Felipe Neri also saw strong sales. The events highlighted direct support for local producers and entrepreneurs in Panama City.
Panama’s National Assembly is advancing a bill linked to a 2026 increase for retirees and pensioners. The proposal is drawing attention because it could affect monthly income for thousands of beneficiaries.
Panama’s National Assembly is advancing a bill to raise payments for retirees and pensioners, with the trust fund created for the measure emerging as a key issue. The proposal could shape how pension support is financed and delivered.
U.S. distillers dried grains with solubles were promoted to Panama stakeholders as exporters look to expand awareness of the animal feed ingredient. The outreach highlights Panama’s role as a regional trade hub for agricultural products.
Transport operators in Panama must validate their status to receive the fuel subsidy, and some are already reporting problems with the process. The measure could affect operating costs for carriers if access remains difficult.
Panama has authorized $3.5 million to restore a tourist insurance policy designed to boost arrivals and strengthen the country’s appeal to visitors. The benefit had previously been used successfully in earlier administrations.
The Panama Canal will be the Honor Guest at FIL Panama 2026, giving the country’s flagship book fair a strong national theme. The selection highlights the canal’s role in Panama’s identity, economy, and global profile.
Panama approved more than $12 million to build 50 zarzo bridges in the Ngäbe Buglé comarca. The project aims to improve safety and access in remote communities where students and families face dangerous crossings.
Panama’s child poverty debate is intensifying as a former Social Development Minister urges urgent action, especially for children from birth to age six. The warning highlights early childhood as the most critical stage for long-term development.
Panama is hosting a forum on Venezuela’s investment outlook, focusing on growth prospects, foreign capital, and the challenges of legal and regulatory uncertainty. The discussion also highlights energy as a key sector for regional investors.
Panama has activated a fuel subsidy for public transport, setting weekly spending caps for taxis and buses to prevent fare increases. The program also fixes temporary price ceilings on 91-octane gasoline and low-sulfur diesel.
Panama has started distributing subsidized fuel to nearly 19,800 transport operators in a move aimed at preventing higher passenger fares. The program covers several regulated transport sectors and is being rolled out through a new verification platform.
Panama’s transport subsidy system went live at 6:00 a.m. with modality-based limits and AIG platform monitoring. More than 600 transport providers had already made purchases early in the day.
Panama fans traveling to see the England match at MetLife Stadium may face round-trip transit fares of more than $100, far above current prices. The increase reflects security and operating costs tied to World Cup hosting in New Jersey.
Panama has begun selling subsidized fuel to transport operators, a measure intended to ease costs in a sector that depends heavily on stable fuel prices. The move could help support fares, service continuity, and business stability.
China has reportedly pressed Maersk and MSC to abandon Panama port operations, putting one of the world’s key shipping hubs at the center of a geopolitical dispute. The move raises stakes for Panama’s logistics sector and the companies operating along the canal trade route.
Panama remains a major destination for people seeking residency, retirement, or a new base in Central America. Its economy, canal-linked profile, and expat-friendly reputation continue to drive interest in immigration.
Panama’s bunker fuel sales rose to a one-year high in March, reflecting stronger maritime activity tied to the country’s shipping and canal economy. The increase highlights Panama’s continued importance as a global refueling and transit hub.
Panama has ordered Maersk and MSC to withdraw from Panama Canal port operations, putting two global shipping giants at the center of a major logistics shift. The move underscores the strategic importance of canal-linked ports to Panama’s economy and trade position.