Coverage of national economic trends, policy decisions, and indicators that affect everyday life. We provide analysis of fiscal policy, employment, and growth drivers.
A presentation tied to the SMI Panama Conference highlights Panama’s ongoing role as a regional hub for business, logistics, and investment discussions. The event reflects continuing interest in the country’s strategic economic position.
An explosion near the Panama Canal has intensified scrutiny of safety failures, labor enforcement, and unauthorized employment around the global trade hub. The incident underscores the risks facing operations tied to one of Panama’s most important economic assets.
Panama will issue a double payment this Friday, April 17, to retirees and pensioners receiving benefits by ACH transfer or check. The permanent bonus is set to reach beneficiaries across the country.
Panama’s rice millers have urged that food security take priority as the country considers a possible rice price increase. The debate highlights the tension between protecting consumers and keeping the staple supply chain stable.
China has pressed Maersk and MSC to stop operating ports tied to the Panama Canal, raising new pressure around one of Panama’s most strategic assets. The move highlights the canal’s role in global trade and its geopolitical importance.
Panama’s Ministry of Public Works and U.S. officials are continuing an assessment of the Bridge of the Americas after a fire. The evaluation will guide the next steps for one of the country’s most important road links.
Panama’s Public Ministry inspected Social Security Fund offices after 65 complaints over alleged pension-system irregularities. The case centers on claims that pensions were granted to people who did not meet contribution requirements.
Caja de Ahorros has opened an innovation center as part of its drive to modernize processes and improve customer experience. The initiative reinforces the bank’s push toward technological transformation in Panama.
A failure at the Chilibre water plant has cut production sharply, leaving high-ground neighborhoods in Panama City and San Miguelito with low pressure or no water. Repair crews are working while residents and local officials press for a faster fix.
Sugarcane honey producers in Los Santos are calling on Panama’s lawmakers to include them in the ethanol law debate. They say the policy could strengthen rural jobs, diversify farm income, and support a more sustainable agricultural sector.
Panama’s ATTT has extended until May 30, 2026, the deadline for transport operators to buy the 2025 license plate. The move gives drivers extra time to complete the registration process.
Panama Metro has launched the first test run of Line 3’s monorail section between Patio y Talleres and Ciudad del Futuro. The project is aimed at easing congestion and improving transit links between Panama City and Panama Oeste.
Higher fuel costs are pushing up the price of some foods at the La Chorrera wholesale market, including pear-shaped tomatoes and plantains. The increase shows how transport expenses can quickly affect everyday groceries in Panama Oeste.
Panama has left the ICAO list of significant concern in air security, boosting confidence in Tocumen International Airport. Travelers from Venezuela, Haiti, Nicaragua and Cuba will still face extra screening on arrival.
The Panama Canal has started a new apprentice program with 75 trainees to help strengthen workforce renewal and technical training. The initiative is being run through the Canal’s Talent Academy and focuses on industrial and security preparation.
Panama has been removed from ICAO’s significant aviation safety concern list after the designation had been in place since 2023. The change is expected to support more efficient operations and reinforce confidence in the country’s air transport sector.
Panama’s Banking Association has raised concern over a draft bill that would cap interest rates on several loan portfolios. The group is asking to be included in the legislative discussion.
Panama has been removed from the ICAO safety concern list after joint work between the Civil Aviation Authority and Tocumen International Airport. The move strengthens the country’s position as a regional aviation hub.
Copa Airlines is extending transit stays in Panama to 15 days, aiming to convert more Tocumen connections into short stopovers. The change could boost tourism spending and strengthen Panama’s role as a regional air hub.
Transport operators in Chitré say they are having trouble registering on Panamá Conecta to access the fuel subsidy. The issue affects drivers who rely on the program to manage operating costs.