Coverage of national economic trends, policy decisions, and indicators that affect everyday life. We provide analysis of fiscal policy, employment, and growth drivers.
Ilya Espino de Marotta’s appointment to lead the Panama Canal has drawn attention to water security, climate resilience and the future of the waterway. The Chamber of Commerce says her tenure begins at a decisive moment for Panama’s logistics and trade role.
Panama Circular Experience gathered government and business leaders to discuss circular economy strategies in Panama. The event underscored growing interest in sustainability as both an environmental and economic priority.
Apede is calling for Panama’s tourism growth to expand beyond the capital and into the provinces, arguing that better connectivity and promotion could create more jobs nationwide. The group is also backing new regional tourism initiatives ahead of its May 29 forum.
Panama’s business leaders have backed Ilya Espino de Marotta and urged technical leadership for the Panama Canal as it faces water, climate and infrastructure challenges. The move underscores the canal’s central role in the country’s economy and logistics sector.
Panama’s National Assembly is moving Bill No. 641 to second debate, with revised tax and substance rules aimed at foreign-source passive income. The proposal remains closely watched because of its impact on the merchant marine sector and Panama’s EU compliance goals.
ApeDe is calling for a stronger tourism push into Panama’s interior provinces, saying visitor spending should help create more economic activity outside the capital. The idea could spread tourism income more evenly across local businesses and communities.
Panama’s Finance Ministry has begun budget hearings for 2027, with 96 institutions set to justify their spending requests through June 5. The process will shape the draft budget before it goes to Cabinet and the National Assembly.
CCIAP has endorsed Ilya Espino de Marotta’s appointment to lead the Panama Canal, calling it a historic milestone and a sign of technical merit. The business sector says her leadership will be crucial as the Canal faces water, climate, and infrastructure challenges.
Marco Rubio said any final deal with Iran depends on Tehran never obtaining a nuclear weapon, while Trump said an agreement is largely negotiated. The outcome could matter for Panama through shipping, energy prices, and global trade stability.
Spanish police have tied businessman Julio Martínez Martínez to an alleged influence network linked to the Plus Ultra bailout and former premier José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero. The case centers on public funds, offshore companies, and the political use of business contacts.
Iran says it will secure the Strait of Hormuz under a “new regional order” as talks with Washington move toward a deal that could reopen the crucial shipping lane. The standoff matters far beyond the Gulf because disruptions there can ripple through global energy and maritime trade.
Bhutan is building a new international airport in Gelephu to open its southern region to more travelers while preserving its tightly managed tourism model. The project is tied to a larger plan for a mindfulness-focused city and new transport links with India.
President José Raúl Mulino defended Panama’s stance in its trade dispute with Costa Rica, saying his duty is to protect Panamanian producers. He also said no energy sales to Costa Rica have been approved.
Panama’s Savings Fund posted a positive return in the first quarter of 2026 despite global market turbulence and benchmark losses. Managers said the result reflects a long-term, diversified strategy built to withstand volatility.
Panama taxpayers can ask the DGI to correct errors in their tax current accounts, but the process is time-bound and must follow formal notice rules. The procedure can affect credits, balances, and the right to appeal.
Panama’s National Assembly committee has sent an economic substance bill to the plenary after approving it in first debate. The measure could affect corporate transparency and Panama’s role as a regional business hub.
IDAAN’s mounting debt and weak billing system are deepening Panama’s water crisis, with nearly half of production going unaccounted for. A long-running modernization effort remains tied to financing that the utility is struggling to secure.
A former IDAAN executive argues that Panama’s water crisis demands stronger leadership, better collections and major infrastructure upgrades. His reflections point to lessons from past reforms and the growing cost of delaying action.
Panama has imposed reciprocal trade measures against Costa Rica after fresh friction over sanitary and commercial restrictions. The dispute could affect border trade, energy sales and regional transport links.
Panama’s butterflies are more than a symbol of natural beauty; they support ecosystems, tourism and potential sustainable income. Their protection is becoming increasingly important as biodiversity and ecotourism gain value.