Coverage of national economic trends, policy decisions, and indicators that affect everyday life. We provide analysis of fiscal policy, employment, and growth drivers.
The Panama Canal Authority launched LoTSA 2.5, an upgraded long-term slot allocation program aimed at improving certainty and flexibility for shippers. The sealed bid auction is set for April 28, 2026, with implementation on May 16 and bookings for July 5, 2026 to Jan. 2, 2027.
An Al Jazeera analysis argues that Gulf economies are pivotal to the global system, and that the US–Israel war dynamic with Iran carries risks that may extend beyond energy markets. Uncertainty could ripple through trade and economic conditions felt far beyond the Middle East.
A proposal to charge transit passengers at Tocumen Airport could hurt Panama’s competitiveness as an air-connection hub, the airport administrator warned. The initiative, pushed by Deputy Benicio Robinson Hijo, has raised concerns within the aviation sector.
Panama’s MIDA minister said there will be no increase in rice prices after a closed-door meeting with rice producers, millers, and input suppliers. The decision came despite pressure citing higher production costs.
The Panama Canal has introduced LoTSA 2.5 to improve transit slot allocation for customers. The update is aimed at increasing certainty and flexibility while adding operational changes to reflect current market dynamics.
Alcaldes de Panamá, a través de Adalpa, se reunieron con el ministro Felipe Chapman para exigir la entrega completa de los fondos del IBI. La gestión busca asegurar que los recursos lleguen en su totalidad a nivel local.
El IFARHU, mediante el PASE-U 2026, define montos para estudiantes de premedia y media en Panamá. Telemetro también resume requisitos y explica por qué el beneficio puede perderse.
A terminal-related dispute involving the Panama Canal disrupted port operations, according to Port Technology. The available details do not specify the parties or the extent of the disruption beyond the reported disruption itself.
El MEF publicó el calendario de pagos de abril 2026 para servidores públicos en Panamá. Las fechas se organizan por institución para que cada funcionario pueda confirmar cuándo recibirá su salario.
China has launched two trade barrier investigations into the US in response to Washington’s Section 301 probes. The move could pave the way for renewed tariff pressure, including over “green products” trade.
Amupa advirtió que un déficit en las transferencias del Fondo IBI, derivado del impuesto de bien inmueble, afecta especialmente a los municipios más pobres. El directivo señaló que el fondo debe transferirse íntegramente a los municipios.
Container News’ explainer links China-related vessel detentions to the likely downstream effects on Panama port operations. It frames Panama as a key transit node as shipping schedules and port-call strategies face uncertainty.
Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Iraq are ramping up pipeline-linked oil export options to reduce reliance on the Strait of Hormuz. The move aims to lower exposure to the strategic chokepoint and keep crude flowing to global markets.
Rising oil prices tied to the Middle East crisis have pushed Brent above US$110, driving higher petrol costs in China. The result, according to dealers and analysts, is faster consumer pivot to EVs.
China has detained nearly 70 ships flagged to Panama since March, prompting close monitoring by the U.S. Federal Maritime Commission. The reported incident raises concerns for shipping schedules involving Panama’s large registry.
Beijing’s top Hong Kong and Macau affairs official, Xia Baolong, has completed a five-day visit to Greater Bay Area cities including Guangzhou, Zhaoqing and Foshan to explore ways of deepening Hong Kong’s integration into China’s national development blueprint.
A report by Asia Financial says China is increasing checks of ships connected with Panama as a port-related dispute escalates. The move could affect shipping schedules and costs for vessels using Panama-linked routes.
Panamanian rice producers warn that higher fuel and fertilizer costs could eventually push rice prices up. They say there is enough inventory until late October, so any impact would likely show up in the next harvest starting in July.
Hong Kong’s MTR Corporation will keep train fares unchanged for the coming year, extending its second straight year without a fare increase. The operator will also continue fare concessions for elderly riders, children, eligible students and people with disabilities.
Justin Lin Yifu says China can absorb economic shocks from the Iran war and still meet its annual growth target. He also warned China is preparing for possible US trade-deal reversals.