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 pension debate is turning toward how the country can use income from ports, the Canal and logistics to build a more sustainable system. The key issue is not only revenue, but whether new funds can be managed with strong oversight and credibility.
China’s ambassador to Panama said a meeting may soon be held to discuss the detention of Panama-flagged vessels. The move highlights an issue with diplomatic and maritime importance for Panama.
Gasoline and diesel prices in Panama will increase starting May 15 and remain in place until May 29, 2026. The change is likely to affect drivers, transport costs, and business expenses.
Panama’s Bill 491 has sparked a dispute between lawmakers, the president, and maritime business groups over its impact on logistics and shipping costs. Supporters say the measure would not hurt the economy, while critics warn it could affect port activity.
Panama will keep the subsidy that holds the price of the household gas tank steady nationwide, Finance Minister Felipe Chapman confirmed. The measure protects consumers even as it adds to the state budget.
Panamanians participating in the Fiscal Lottery must deposit their invoice-filled envelopes in the authorized mailboxes for the May drawings. The program continues to rely on receipts as the basis for entry.
Trump and Xi are meeting as the war on Iran and U.S.-China tensions over trade and technology put fresh pressure on the global economy. The outcome could reverberate through shipping, energy, and markets worldwide.
DP World has secured IATA certification for its freight forwarding operations in Panama, boosting its air cargo presence in a key regional logistics hub. The move adds to Panama’s role in connecting trade flows across the Americas.
Panama’s agricultural sector faces another leadership change after the ISA general manager resigned, joining a series of departures across key institutions. The turnover is affecting agencies tied to farming, food logistics, and agricultural policy.
Copa Holdings posted higher first-quarter revenue as expanded capacity helped boost airline activity. The result highlights the company’s role as a major Panama-based carrier and regional travel hub operator.
Panama’s Ministry of Economy and Finance says Friday, May 15 is the last day to submit envelopes with invoices for the Fiscal Lottery. The initiative encourages consumers to keep and turn in receipts from their purchases.
President José Raúl Mulino promoted Panama as a key connector of markets, investment, and opportunity during a congress on free trade zones. His message highlighted the country’s role as a regional logistics and commerce hub.
Panama City Hall will hold a public hearing on May 20 to discuss charging for parking in areas of the Capital District. The proposal could affect traffic flow and street parking in the city’s busiest zones.
Panama and the Dominican Republic renewed their push to strengthen trade and migration cooperation during a meeting between Presidents José Raúl Mulino and Luis Abinader. The talks took place at the World Free Zones Organization congress, underscoring the countries’ shared interest in logistics and regional commerce.
Panama and the Dominican Republic are pressing free zones to move beyond tax incentives and low-cost storage toward technology, advanced manufacturing and logistics. The discussion at a major congress in Panama City highlighted how both countries want to deepen trade and investment.
Panama’s National Lottery has deployed its own system to process pending Lotto and Pega 3 payouts after the electronic platform was shut down. Officials also extended prize-claim deadlines for winning tickets tied to active draws.
Panama City’s municipality will hold a public hearing on extending business hours during the World Cup. The proposal is aimed at boosting commerce as the tournament drives local economic activity.
IFARHU is advancing verification for PASE-U 2026 beneficiaries while preparing pilot schools to test a new card-based payment system. The move could change how education aid is delivered to students across Panama.
Finance Minister Felipe Chapman backed excluding Panama’s maritime sector from the draft Law on Economic Substance now under review in the National Assembly. The move could shape how the country balances regulation with the competitiveness of a key service industry.
Panama’s Ministry of Labor has posted new job openings in Darién and Panama province on its portal. The vacancies are meant to connect employers with local job seekers through an official platform.