Coverage of national economic trends, policy decisions, and indicators that affect everyday life. We provide analysis of fiscal policy, employment, and growth drivers.
China imported 21.8 million tonnes of Russian crude in Jan–Feb 2026, up 40.9% year-on-year, but the dollar value rose only 5.8% as the Iran war may reshape future demand.
India will supply Bangladesh with 45,000 tonnes of diesel by April, with 5,000 tonnes already delivered, underscoring New Delhi’s regional energy role as fuel prices surge amid the Iran war.
Lloyd’s List reports China has increased detentions of Panama-flagged vessels, prompting concern among shipowners and financiers about inspections, financing and insurance risks.
We Build Value names the Panama Canal among five infrastructure projects that symbolize nations, underscoring the canal’s enduring significance to Panama’s global identity and economy.
Panama has accused a CK Hutchison subsidiary of misrepresenting its response in an arbitration case, the South China Morning Post reported, raising procedural and reputational issues for the dispute.
The Panama Canal Authority said it will permit uninterrupted vessel transits during its March–September 2026 maintenance program, aiming to prevent disruption to global shipping.
Hainan’s new separate customs regime has accelerated its bid to become a free-trade gateway and a “super partner” to Hong Kong, positioning the island as both rival and collaborator in retail, finance and tourism.
Sinolam International has launched World Bank arbitration after Panama revoked its gas‑plant licence, invoking protections under the Panama–Singapore Free Trade Agreement.
Sinolam International has taken Panama to a World Bank arbitration forum after Panama canceled the company’s licence for a gas plant. The claim invokes protections under the Panama–Singapore Free Trade Agreement and involves concessions near the Panama Canal.
The South China Morning Post warns US Section 301 tariffs could trigger fresh global trade disruption amid political diversions and heightened Middle East tensions, risking knock-on effects for Panama and Latin America.
Costa Rica and Panama signed a rail cooperation deal tied to Panama’s border-bound train project, aiming to enhance trade, logistics and regional connectivity while prompting technical and regulatory follow-up.
Panama has publicly rejected a claim from a CK Hutchison unit alleging the state ignored arbitration, the Hong Kong Free Press reports. Details on the dispute remain limited.
Chiquita has begun a phased, limited restart of banana production in Changuinola, western Panama, following strike-related disruptions and a prior administrative move in June 2025.
Chiquita has begun a limited, phased restart of banana production in Changuinola, western Panama, after a nationwide strike disrupted supply, marking a cautious step toward recovery.
The National Assembly approved Bill 403 to prevent gambling addiction and tighten rules on digital operators, a move led by deputy Raúl Pineda that renews scrutiny of his earlier ties to the gambling sector.
Public Works Minister Luis Andrade will not appear before the National Assembly to answer questions about evictions tied to the Vía España expansion; lawmakers traded accusations and a spending dispute over school nutrition and prisoner food surfaced.
Rising fuel and freight costs are driving up food production and import expenses in Panama, hitting items like garlic and raising concerns among farmers about squeezed margins and future price increases.
A La Prensa opinion piece spotlights Chiriquí’s regional pride and agricultural resilience, arguing that the province’s identity and hard work are central to its development.
Meduca is using extended contracts and leftover nutritional products to sustain parts of Panama’s school snack program while three major tenders—totaling over $29.6M—are evaluated.
Canal Bank has named veteran banker Gina de Sáenz as General Manager to lead a governance and growth-focused strategy, backed by US$45 million in 2025 capital contributions.