Coverage of national economic trends, policy decisions, and indicators that affect everyday life. We provide analysis of fiscal policy, employment, and growth drivers.
CK Hutchison’s Panama unit says the government failed to answer an arbitration claim by the March 13 deadline after a court ruled contracts for two Panama Canal–area ports unconstitutional and the state took control.
The Maritime Executive reports the Panama Canal Administrator presented recent operational advancements at the CMA Shipping conference, outlining progress affecting canal services and stakeholders.
MIDA has begun a dialogue with Panamanian ranchers on cattle genetic improvement in partnership with a U.S. cattle genetics export association, aiming to boost herd productivity and competitiveness.
A syndicated APTOPIX photo feature on the Panama Canal was published by the Bluefield Daily Telegraph, using imagery to highlight the canal’s ongoing global importance.
The Bluefield Daily Telegraph posted a feed item titled “Panama Canal” on March 17, 2026; the feed lacked full text. We outline why even brief notices about the canal matter for Panama’s trade and economy.
Panama Canal administrator Ricaurte Vásquez said the Canal could see increased traffic due to the war in the Middle East, potentially benefiting Panama but also raising operational challenges.
A ports company told The Tico Times it is experiencing “drastic and growing” damage stemming from a dispute with Panama over canal-related issues, raising commercial and political concerns.
Czech drinks group Kofola bought a 49% stake in Panamanian drinks company Alta Fermentación, a minority investment that could strengthen ties between European beverage firms and Panama’s market.
MEDUCA and the Hotel Association have reactivated a tourism education program for students, with MEDUCA saying it will pursue more private-sector partnerships to expand the model.
The IMA will hold agro‑fairs in more than eight provinces on March 17–18, starting at 8:00 a.m., offering quality agricultural products at accessible prices to consumers.
Panama’s National Statistics Agency reported a 4.4% increase in GDP for 2025, signaling continued economic momentum tied to services and trade.
TradingView reports Panama’s economy expanded 4.4% in 2025, with the transport sector identified as the primary driver of growth. The result highlights the continuing centrality of transport and trade-related services to Panama’s economy.
Panama has asked Chinese shipping giant COSCO to return to canal terminals it has operated since 1997, after Panamanian authorities reclaimed control. The move highlights operational and geopolitical concerns over foreign roles in Panama Canal infrastructure.
A non-scientific citizen consultation in San Miguelito found 69.5% of respondents support reopening the Donoso mine, while a separate Data Consulting survey showed 55% approval; 93% said Panama needs more formal jobs.
Panama Ports Company says the government’s annulment of its decades-long concession for the Balboa and Cristóbal terminals is causing “drastic and growing damage,” raising concerns about port operations and investor confidence.
The Herald Journal feed listed a brief item titled “Panama Germany” on March 16, 2026, but the feed did not include the article text. Seek the full story from the publisher for details.
Caja de Ahorros announced its new Clave card will support international payments and digital wallet integration, and can be requested from April.
ETESA received an “Excelente” rating from Sustainable Fitch for its Green Debt Framework on March 16, 2026, becoming the first Panamanian public company to earn this recognition.
Chiquita is conducting limited banana production trials in Bocas del Toro to test fruit quality and remodeled packing plants, selling locally while it assesses when to resume exports.
Telemetro explains how to calculate Panama’s décimo tercer mes, when it’s paid, and which incomes count — essential guidance for workers and payroll staff.