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 water crisis is no longer just about dry taps and low pressure. Chronic leaks, weak oversight, and poor planning have turned abundance into shortage for many households.
The Panama Canal has benefited from shipping disruption tied to Middle East conflict, with revenues rising by as much as 15%. The boost reflects global carriers rerouting trade through Panama to avoid higher-risk passages.
Panama’s SNAC filing deadline rules continue to draw scrutiny after a 2023 change removed one disputed phrase but left questions about how to count the five-day term. The Tax Procedure Code is now being cited as the clearest guide for taxpayers under extension.
Panama’s water crisis is drawing renewed attention to the cost of emergency trucking, aging infrastructure, and the political interests tied to scarcity. The debate is increasingly centered on transparency, long-term investment, and safe water access.
Panama’s business sector is warning against a bill that would tax containers to help increase pension payments for retirees. The proposal is expected to return to the National Assembly next legislative session.
The next rector of the University of Panama will face three major tests: defending the budget, boosting research, and streamlining bureaucracy. Those challenges will shape the university’s role in Panama’s public life.
Panama’s tourism sector is asking authorities for more street patrols after recent criminal incidents raised concern ahead of a busy 2026. The industry says stronger security is needed as more visitors and international events are expected.
Panama’s public employees will receive the first half of their May salary starting May 12. The Ministry of Economy and Finance has the full first-semester 2026 payroll calendar online.
Panama’s traffic authority is testing changes in Brisas del Golf and reviewing other major intersections in Panama City as congestion worsens. Officials say the goal is to ease gridlock without cutting access for residents and businesses.
Iran’s Revolutionary Guard navy warned that attacks on its tankers or commercial ships would draw retaliation against U.S. bases and enemy vessels. The warning came as a fragile ceasefire continued to hold.
The IMA has confirmed that next week’s agro-fairs will open at 8:00 a.m. at all authorized locations. The program remains an important option for Panamanians seeking access to basic goods through state-run sales points.
Metro de Panamá is changing operations on Lines 1 and 2 as daily ridership rises to between 420,000 and 450,000 passengers. The adjustment comes as the capital’s transit system faces growing demand.
Costa Rica’s new president, Laura Fernández, is pressing Panama to remove restrictions on Costa Rican farm products and to reopen direct talks with José Raúl Mulino. The dispute remains unresolved after a WTO panel favored Costa Rica and Panama appealed.
Iran has highlighted the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz while nuclear talks with the United States continue. The warning underscores how tensions in the Gulf could affect global energy prices and trade flows.
A regional fiscal review for 2025 compares public finances across Central America and highlights Panama’s place in a varied economic landscape. The study shows Latin America holding relative stability while the Caribbean faces worsening deficits and weaker revenues.
Tighter US pressure on Cuba’s oil supplies is worsening power cuts and fuel shortages, putting the island’s small private businesses under intense strain. The crisis is fueling deeper economic hardship with potential spillover effects for migration and regional stability.
Panama says relations with China are improving after a diplomatic spat, raising hopes for steadier ties between two key partners. The shift matters for trade, investment, and Panama’s broader diplomatic strategy.
Cobre Panamá delivered school backpacks to more than 1,350 students in Colón province through a coordinated effort with community leaders. The initiative aimed to support low-income families and strengthen education in 13 districts.
Panama City’s municipality has awarded renovation contracts for Plaza 5 de Mayo and Avenida 3 de Noviembre to the Gana-Oti Consortium. The two projects total more than $11.8 million in bids.
Rony Araúz’s 2014 reform at Unachi is back in focus after helping convert temporary teachers into permanent staff and expand the university payroll. The measure, once justified as labor regularization, is now tied to mounting salary costs and financial strain.