Coverage of national economic trends, policy decisions, and indicators that affect everyday life. We provide analysis of fiscal policy, employment, and growth drivers.
Iran says it will soon unveil a plan involving the Strait of Hormuz as U.S. warnings intensify and Israeli strikes continue in Lebanon. The standoff could affect global oil markets and shipping costs.
Azuero’s water crisis in Herrera and Los Santos has become a costly routine, with more than 100,000 people relying on cistern trucks after contamination crippled treatment plants. Emergency spending has topped $2 million as the region waits for a lasting fix.
Panama is advancing tax reforms tied to economic substance rules, but the bigger test is whether the country can also remove domestic barriers to real business activity. The outcome could shape investment, competitiveness, and Panama’s international standing.
Chicken has become Panama’s leading household protein as families respond to higher beef prices and steady poultry availability. Per capita consumption reached 115 pounds in 2025, while domestic production also continued to grow.
Panama’s accounting profession is using its annual celebration to call for stronger ethics, more technology, and a bigger role in governance. The message reflects how CPAs are being pushed to become strategic advisers in a more complex economy.
Panama’s tax rules give individuals and companies a formal path to petition the DGI, challenge decisions, and seek account corrections. Deadlines and appeal rights can be decisive when tax balances are disputed.
Unachi is facing renewed scrutiny over alleged nepotism, high salaries and a $12 million Social Security debt. The dispute has revived questions about university autonomy and political influence in public institutions.
Panama could play a larger role in global energy security as countries look for safer ways to store and move LNG amid rising geopolitical risk. The Canal’s location gives the country a strategic edge in any future reserve-and-distribution model.
Cruise lines are being presented as a job opportunity for Panamanians as unemployment remains high and informal work still dominates much of the labor market. The sector is drawing interest for roles in hospitality, gastronomy, and entertainment.
Iran is preparing to unveil a plan for the Strait of Hormuz as fighting intensifies in Lebanon and Gaza, raising fears of a wider regional crisis. The standoff could affect global energy prices and shipping costs, with knock-on effects for Panama and Latin America.
The IMA will hold simultaneous Agro-Fairs across several regions of Panama on May 18 and 19, starting at 8:00 a.m. The events are designed to connect consumers with agricultural products through direct public sales.
The Panama Canal says it does not plan transit restrictions in 2026, despite ongoing El Niño concerns. The move is important for Panama’s economy and for global shipping routes that rely on steady canal traffic.
Panama’s National Assembly Budget Committee approved $13.45 million for six new security aircraft and an aerial training school. The vote followed a heated debate over costs, priorities, and the use of public funds.
The University of Panama graduated 50 professionals in agricultural sciences, with degrees spanning agronomy, livestock, agribusiness, and environmental management. The ceremony underscored the university’s role in training talent for Panama’s productive and rural sectors.
Cruise companies are offering Panamanians a pathway to jobs abroad, with salaries that can start above $1,000 a month and rise with experience. English proficiency remains the main requirement for candidates seeking positions on board.
Panama’s retirees and pensioners will receive their second May payment on May 19, while those paid by check may collect on May 20 at CSS centers. The schedule follows the regular monthly disbursement for beneficiaries nationwide.
Costa Rica has intensified a trade dispute with Panama, raising concerns about border commerce, logistics, and regional economic stability. The move adds pressure to ties between two of Central America’s key trading partners.
Panama will host the 31st Meeting of the Association of Caribbean States’ Council of Ministers on June 21. The gathering will spotlight trade, logistics, climate resilience and regional cooperation.
Heavy traffic in the Strait of Hormuz is underscoring renewed concern over one of the world’s most important energy chokepoints. Any disruption could reverberate through oil markets, shipping costs and inflation worldwide.
Costa Rica is escalating its trade dispute with Panama, seeking international action over restrictions on agricultural exports. The conflict, already ruled on by the WTO, remains active after Panama’s appeal.