Coverage of national economic trends, policy decisions, and indicators that affect everyday life. We provide analysis of fiscal policy, employment, and growth drivers.
Panama’s business water costs are getting renewed attention as global markets move toward more flexible utility procurement models. Even without retail competition, local companies can still find savings through billing checks, leak detection, and tariff reviews.
Donald Trump ended a two-day summit in Beijing with Xi Jinping, a closely watched meeting as US-China tensions continue to shape trade and geopolitics. The talks carry significance far beyond the two capitals, including for global commerce and Latin America.
The Panama Canal is responding to El Niño concerns as drier weather can affect freshwater supplies needed to operate the locks. The issue highlights how climate patterns can influence one of Panama’s most important economic assets.
MIDA held a Family Farming Fair in Changuinola, Bocas del Toro, giving local producers a chance to sell products grown on their own farms. The event highlighted the role of small-scale agriculture in Panama’s rural economy.
Panama’s private sector supports the Economic Substance bill and sees it as a step toward greater competitiveness. Business leaders, however, want changes before the proposal advances.
Panamanian fishers are opposing a new unloading schedule proposed by ARAP, saying the timing rules could disrupt their work and seafood sales. The dispute highlights the tension between regulation and the realities of the fishing sector.
Panama fishermen have rejected a new ARAP unloading schedule, warning that it could disrupt operations and reduce earnings. The dispute underscores tensions over regulation in a sector where timing directly affects business performance.
The Technological University of Panama is advancing a bioconversion project that turns agroindustrial waste into useful resources in Coclé. The initiative seeks to cut environmental damage while supporting a circular economy.
Cargo transporters in Panama are split over the fuel subsidy, with some saying long-haul diesel costs still hurt profits. Drivers on routes like Chiriquí to Panama City say fuel remains a heavy burden.
Idaan awarded more than $7.3 million in tanker-truck water contracts across several provinces, with multiple beneficiaries tied to political and public-sector figures. The awards are drawing scrutiny because of their links to people close to Realizando Metas.
A ship was seized and another sank near the Strait of Hormuz, renewing fears of disruption in one of the world’s most critical shipping lanes. The incidents come as Iranian officials again pressed claims over the strategic waterway.
Panama City held a unanimous public hearing backing temporary late-night business hours during the FIFA World Cup 2026. The proposal would let eligible restaurants stay open until 2:00 a.m. from June 11 to July 19, 2026.
Panama has introduced mandatory cybersecurity controls for state entities, requiring agencies to prove compliance within 30 days and submit corrective plans if needed. The move responds to a series of recent cyber incidents affecting public institutions.
Panama City Hall has started reviewing claims tied to unpaid seniority bonuses for former municipal workers dating back to 2014. The process could help resolve a long-running labor issue involving ex-employees of the capital’s government.
Acodeco warned consumers after finding suspected misleading advertising, expired products and items without visible prices during a routine inspection. The agency said the violations run counter to Panama’s consumer protection law.
Panama has restarted the Sabanitas I and II water projects in Colón, aiming to boost potable water production and reduce tanker truck dependence. The upgrades are expected to expand service for more than 115,000 families.
Panama’s Ministry of Economy and Finance has closed the urns for the Fiscal Lottery Regional 2026, which offers prizes of up to B/.10,000. The program encourages consumers to request official receipts and support tax compliance.
The Panama Canal is taking steps to protect operations as El Niño raises concerns about dry conditions and falling water levels. Officials want to avoid a repeat of the 2023 drought that disrupted ship traffic and global trade.
The UAE is speeding up a pipeline project meant to move oil around the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most vulnerable energy chokepoints. The move is meant to protect exports and help meet global demand.
Panama’s MIDES will distribute the second 2026 social assistance payment from June 1 to June 12 through Tarjeta Clave Social. The cycle covers Red de Oportunidades, Ángel Guardián, 120 a los 65, and SENAPAN beneficiaries.