Coverage of national economic trends, policy decisions, and indicators that affect everyday life. We provide analysis of fiscal policy, employment, and growth drivers.
Panama has set a price cap on 91-octane gasoline and diesel for transport operators, aiming to ease operating costs in a sector hit hard by fuel prices. The move is likely to affect fares, logistics, and broader inflation pressures.
Panama’s private sector will receive its Décimo Tercer Mes payment in April, with the next installments scheduled for August and December. The bonus remains a key yearly benefit for workers across the country.
Trump said U.S. allies should take responsibility for protecting the Strait of Hormuz as the conflict with Iran escalates. The remarks come as tensions over global oil shipping raise concerns for energy markets worldwide.
A Middle East oil shock could give Chinese EV makers a boost overseas as high fuel prices make electric cars more attractive. The shift may also affect Latin American markets, where Chinese vehicle imports are already growing.
Analysts say a shutdown of the Strait of Hormuz could cause months of shipping disruptions even after traffic resumes. The chokepoint’s importance to global energy flows means the economic fallout could stretch well beyond the crisis itself.
The Trump administration has moved to relax endangered species protections for Gulf of Mexico drilling, citing the need to strengthen U.S. energy competitiveness during war-related market strain. The decision could speed offshore oil activity while sharpening the conflict between energy development and environmental safeguards.
The EU’s energy commissioner says oil and gas prices are unlikely to normalize quickly after the Iran war, warning of prolonged market volatility. The fallout could push up fuel and transport costs in Europe and energy-importing countries worldwide.
Trump said the war with Iran could last another two to three weeks as the Strait of Hormuz remains under pressure and gas prices rise. The conflict is increasing global energy and shipping risks, with possible knock-on effects for Panama and Latin America.
Gas prices have spiked sharply amid the Iran war, raising fears of a broader global economic shock. The surge could feed inflation, strain consumers and hit trade-dependent economies like Panama.
NASA is launching Artemis II to send four astronauts around the Moon, where scientists and planners see water, minerals and a crucial testbed for Mars missions. The mission also reflects a new space race with China and a push to inspire future scientists and engineers.
Panama is working to fill a shortage of about 100 air traffic controllers, with new training courses and upcoming graduates expected to boost staffing over the next two years.
A Russian tanker has delivered fuel to Cuba, providing up to 10 days of relief as the island battles a severe energy shortage. The shipment highlights Cuba’s dependence on outside support amid ongoing power and fuel disruptions.
Acodeco intensified inspection operations in Chiriquí during Holy Week, visiting businesses in areas such as Divalá and Alanje. The effort comes as consumer activity rises across Panama during the holiday period.
Cuba’s fuel shortage is crippling tourism, cutting traffic for drivers, guides and other workers who depend on visitors for income. The crisis is further squeezing a key source of foreign currency for the island economy.
Ampyme and CoNEP signed an agreement to offer mentorship for small and medium-sized entrepreneurs across Panama. The initiative also renews calls for a framework law to make entrepreneurship easier.
Panama has postponed the start of its planned ethanol blend in gasoline, which had been set for April 2026. The delay leaves the country’s current fuel mix unchanged for now.
The US trade chief has cast doubt on a pre-summit Beijing visit ahead of the expected Trump-Xi meeting in May. The move suggests Washington may be taking a less conventional approach to preparing for high-stakes US-China talks.
Panama graduated 25 new air traffic controllers as authorities work to address a staffing shortage in the country’s aviation sector. Three additional training courses are underway to strengthen the workforce.
A sanctioned Russian tanker has docked in Cuba as the island grapples with worsening fuel shortages after Venezuelan shipments were cut off. The arrival highlights Cuba’s dependence on outside oil supplies and the regional impact of sanctions and conflict.
The IMA reported irregularities and delays at one of Tuesday’s agrofairs and apologized to buyers for the inconvenience. The event highlights the importance of these sales for Panamanian households seeking affordable essentials.