Category: Economy

Fuel smuggling from Iran into Pakistan has declined after the recent Middle East fighting, squeezing smugglers with higher costs and thinner cross-border flows.

Port Technology reports a recent surge in inspections of Panama-flagged vessels at Chinese ports, a development with potential operational and reputational consequences for ship operators and Panama’s registry.

BNamericas reports that Panama has appointed an advisor to manage the sale of a stake in a power asset. The move signals a transition into transaction preparation, though key details remain undisclosed.

Hong Kong’s unemployment rate fell 0.1 percentage point to 3.8% over three months, with job gains in retail, accommodation and foundation and superstructure sectors, officials said.

A We Build Value piece lists the Panama Canal among global maritime choke points, underscoring the waterway’s strategic importance and the implications for Panama’s economy and logistics.

Chiquita has restarted limited banana production in Panama as a trial ahead of restarting exports, testing readiness across cultivation and supply-chain operations.

A fundsforNGOs article reports that Panama has begun converting market waste into circular economy initiatives, shifting waste management toward reuse and recovery. The move highlights opportunities and challenges for scaling sustainable practices in municipal markets.

An EIN Presswire report describes how a private vault facility in Panama City has become a discreet hub for global wealth protection, highlighting factors that draw international clients.

A travel feature lists 11 reasons Panama is Central America’s ‘best-kept travel secret,’ highlighting the country’s mix of adventure and relaxation and boosting its appeal to a broad range of visitors.

An EIN Presswire analysis argues that Beijing’s response to Panama’s policy shift highlights risks to ports, infrastructure and future foreign direct investment, citing the Panama Ports Company.

Atlas Vaults in Panama City has become a discreet center for private storage of precious metals, drawing investors who seek physical wealth protection in a dollarized, strategically located jurisdiction.

An IndexBox report says a Hong Kong firm alleges the Panamanian government missed an arbitration deadline in a ports dispute. The claim raises legal and investor uncertainty while details are pending.

The Strait of Hormuz disruption has pushed global freight and tanker rates higher. Panama could face modest cost pressure on imports but may gain cargo volume as shipping routes are reconfigured.

The IMA will hold agroferias in Panama on March 18–19, opening at 8:00 a.m. both days and offering quality products at accessible prices.

A proposed Panamanian law to mix ethanol into gasoline has prompted concerns about higher costs for consumers, with calls for detailed economic analysis and stakeholder consultation.

Panama’s Caja de Seguro Social said it will begin paying a permanent bonus to retirees and pensioners in April 2026, with details on amount and payment schedule to follow.

The MEF has set rules for Panama’s 2026 Fiscal Lottery: invoices dated March 15–May 15 are eligible, a new four-region draw format is established, and strict envelope and documentation rules apply.

The Middle East war is creating global economic shocks that reach Panama through trade, shipping and financial channels; sectors urge contingency measures to protect vulnerable populations.

Acodeco reports a slight February rise in chicken and soup-meat prices within Panama’s Canasta Básica and warns the increase could continue into March, potentially affecting household budgets.

Panama’s Commerce Commission questioned making a 10% bioethanol fuel blend mandatory under Bill 443 after producers presented support during the bill’s first debate.