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 Instituto de Mercadeo Agropecuario began collecting 10,000 quintales of onions from producers in the Azuero region on March 23, 2026, with deliveries progressing after the purchase.
Reporters toured Metrobus stops and Metro de Panamá stations after MiBus implemented changes to assess passenger movement in Panama City and what commuters may face.
Transportistas en David, Chiriquí, pidieron un aumento de tarifas por el alza del combustible; queda pendiente la respuesta de las autoridades y el impacto en usuarios.
ACODECO recovered $4,000 in the Snowland case after an ex officio investigation that verified advertising claims, resulting in consumer restitution.
Panama’s IMA reminded shoppers ahead of March 24 agroferias to present their cédula de identidad personal and to bring reusable bags for purchases, citing operational and environmental reasons.
ASEP has launched a process for a third mobile operator in Panama, scheduling the tender for December and aiming for operations to begin in 2027.
Conflict involving Iran has removed substantial oil and gas supplies from global markets. Rerouting and diversification alone cannot erase the resulting price shock, which could have lasting impacts on fuel, shipping and inflation.
Taxi drivers in Arraiján say fuel costs rose from about $20 to over $30 daily, cutting net earnings from roughly $30 to $18–$19 per day and putting pressure on livelihoods.
Strikes on gas sites tied to the Iran war have boosted energy costs, pushing up electricity, food and other prices worldwide and creating ripple effects for import-dependent economies.
The head of the International Energy Agency warned the Iran war is a “major, major threat” to the global economy, highlighting risks to energy markets, trade and inflation.
Transport operators in David have requested a fare review after fuel prices rose, proposing a 50-centavos increase on the route. The proposal awaits review by local authorities and could affect commuters in Chiriquí.
IFARHU announced a PASE-U validation day and said it is studying a model that would prevent subsidy funds from being withdrawn in cash to avoid misuse.
ASEP has opened a tender this year to admit a third mobile operator in Panama and launched a microsite offering market data, spectrum details and georeferenced infrastructure maps.
An op-ed by Tony Napolitano spotlights the Panama Canal as a strategic chokepoint the U.S. could view as leverage in competition with China, raising implications for Panama’s position in global trade and geopolitics.
Commuters in La Chorrera faced long lines Monday amid reports of a bus fare increase; transport operators in Panama Oeste have denied any rise in fares.
Panama’s Ministry of Economy and Finance announced that disbursements for the second half of March salaries to public servants will begin this Wednesday, the ministry said on March 23, 2026.
ASEP announced a prequalification process starting in May for a potential third mobile operator in Panama, giving applicants seven months to review requirements. ASEP notes the market will exceed five million active lines by end-2025, with 79% prepaid.
A March 2026 analysis lists the Panama Canal among critical global chokepoints, underscoring its strategic role in worldwide shipping and potential impacts on Panama’s economy and operations.
Acodeco recovered over $4,500 for consumers in a dispute with Snowland Panamá, highlighting the agency’s role in enforcing consumer rights and securing refunds.
ASEP announced a May start for the prequalification of a third telecom operator, publishing market, spectrum and infrastructure information ahead of a planned year‑end tender and possible 2027 launch.