Coverage of national economic trends, policy decisions, and indicators that affect everyday life. We provide analysis of fiscal policy, employment, and growth drivers.
An editorial argues Panama has the geography and resources to grow faster but must remove bureaucratic hurdles, boost supply-chain linkages and roll back inefficient protectionism. It urges CADES-Panamá to drive evidence-based reforms and concrete targets for faster permits and greater local value capture.
Panama’s government and transport operators agreed to keep passenger fares unchanged despite rising fuel prices, and will seek alternatives to cover higher operating costs.
Mitradel suspended the Empleos Panamá job portal after detecting an attempted cyberattack and is coordinating with AIG and tech providers to secure the system. The ministry urges users to use official channels and verify sources.
Shipping Telegraph reports CK Hutchison’s Panama unit (PPC) has expanded claims against the Republic of Panama, saying losses now exceed $2 billion; details and responses remain limited.
Drivers in Colón are complaining about the poor condition of Avenida Randolph and the Cuatro Altos roundabout, raising concerns about safety, travel delays, and vehicle damage.
Rising energy and shipping risks tied to the Middle East conflict are pushing up global fertilizer costs, with potential consequences for Panama through higher input and food prices and strain on small farms.
Mayors and juntas comunales in Panama are pressing for the full delivery of IBI decentralization funds after Mayor Mayer Mizrachi said $82M was approved in 2026 despite $168M collected.
After constitutional rulings on a mining project and port concession, Panama faces calls for a law to define and protect strategic assets and critical infrastructure to ensure legal certainty and national security.
An editorial in La Prensa argues Panama must build a national system of technology transfer and financing to convert scientific research into patents, companies and exports, shifting from a services economy toward knowledge-based growth.
A La Prensa column contrasts the solemnity of Semana Santa with Panama’s persistent 10.4% unemployment, high informality and stalled anti-corruption progress, urging citizens to turn faith into civic responsibility.
The University of Panama has reactivated a free shuttle service for active students, introducing new routes and schedules that link campuses with major mass-transit points.
Transport unions in Panama agreed not to raise fares for now and will provide fuel consumption data to a government commission. The MEF will analyze options and aim to propose a temporary relief before April 1.
Deutsche Bank warns the month-long US-Israeli war in Iran could test the petrodollar system and encourage Gulf states to move toward China-backed petroyuan settlements, with possible global currency impacts.
Negotiations on March 25, 2026 between Panama’s government and transport operators paused a planned fare increase; both sides agreed to shield consumers from international crisis impacts.
Panama’s Lotería Nacional has started selling cartones for the Mega Bingo Mundial TV 2026; the first televised draw is scheduled for April 23, 2026. Further details on prizes and ticketing are pending.
The Cámara Marítima de Panamá warned that deterioration of Avenida Randolph in Colón is harming port logistics—this artery moves about 46% of the country’s TEUs and needs urgent repairs.
The National Assembly’s Economy and Finance Commission paused consideration of a proposed $10 transit fee at Tocumen after failing to reach quorum. The bill, Bill 131, faces opposition from tourism and aviation sectors over potential harm to Panama’s hub status.
The Feria Internacional de David donated harvest displayed at the exhibition to local homes, foundations and school cafeterias, redirecting produce to community needs.
The Feria Nacional de Colón is promoted as a family-focused fair that will showcase gastronomy, cultural traditions and support local economic activity in Colón province.
Shoppers at Merca La Chorrera are favoring “La puerquita sopera,” a bag of legumes sold for one balboa, as they search for affordable staples at the market.