Coverage of national economic trends, policy decisions, and indicators that affect everyday life. We provide analysis of fiscal policy, employment, and growth drivers.
A federal court has ruled against President Donald Trump’s new global tariffs, handing the White House another setback in its trade agenda. The decision could have ripple effects for global supply chains and Latin American exporters.
Iran has announced a new agency to oversee shipping in the Strait of Hormuz as it reviews a peace deal with the United States. Reports of gunfire near Qeshm Island have raised fresh concerns over a vital global shipping route.
Panama’s Ministry of Public Works has awarded a $312 million public-private partnership to rehabilitate the Pan-American Highway West. The project includes 15 new U-turn facilities across several communities in Panama Oeste and nearby provinces.
A US trade court has ruled against Trump’s 10 percent global tariffs, siding with small businesses that challenged the February levies. The decision could have wide implications for US trade policy and global supply chains.
Trump has set a July 4 deadline to decide on higher tariffs against the European Union, raising the risk of a new transatlantic trade fight. The move could ripple through global supply chains and indirectly affect trade flows tied to Panama.
President José Raúl Mulino reaffirmed the neutrality of the Panama Canal during the opening of the 2026 Americas Maritime Convention in Panama. The meeting brings global maritime leaders together to discuss trade conditions and shifting shipping routes.
Banana producers in Bocas del Toro are making progress toward recovery after a difficult 2025 that disrupted one of Panama’s key agricultural sectors. The rebound matters for jobs, exports, and the province’s broader economy.
IMA’s Agro-Fairs are open this Friday from 8:00 a.m., offering staple foods at lower prices for Panama shoppers. The events aim to give families affordable access to basic basket items.
IMA will hold agroferias on Friday, May 8, and Saturday, May 9, bringing low-cost food products to multiple provinces across Panama. The weekend events are designed to help families access essentials at more affordable prices.
Panama’s Budget Committee approved a $30 million transfer for decentralization debt after a heated exchange between Roxana Méndez and Benicio Robinson over investigations into local funds. The vote passed 10-0, with Robinson abstaining.
Boquete is hosting Remote Latin America 2026, giving Panama a chance to showcase sustainable travel to international tourism professionals. The event highlights the Chiriquí highlands and supports the country’s push beyond mass-market tourism.
Transport operators in Panama Oeste suspended service to demand a higher fuel subsidy and permission for larger buses to cross the Bridge of the Americas. The protest underscores ongoing pressure over transport costs and route access in the capital region.
Shipping companies are facing rising uncertainty as the Strait of Hormuz remains disrupted amid U.S.-Iran tensions and a U.S. Navy blockade of Iranian ports. The standoff could increase costs and ripple through global energy and trade routes.
Panama has asked for talks with China’s transport ministry over the detention of Panamanian-flagged ships in Chinese ports. The move highlights the country’s stake in protecting its global maritime registry.
Three ship hijackings near the Gulf of Aden have revived fears that piracy may be returning to the waters off Somalia and Yemen. The incidents raise the prospect of higher shipping costs and broader disruptions to global trade.
Tigo Panama has secured an US$88 million cash boost to support mergers and acquisitions as well as new spending. The funding gives the telecom operator more flexibility to expand in Panama’s competitive market.
Panama will tender five port concessions over the next 18 months, President José Raúl Mulino said. The plan underscores the country’s push to strengthen its logistics sector and maritime trade role.
Panama has won an arbitration dispute over bonds at ICSID, a result that may bolster investor confidence and the country’s legal standing in global markets.
Gulf states are pressing the United Nations to secure the Strait of Hormuz, demanding that Iran stop attacks and protect shipping through the vital passage. The move reflects rising concern over a chokepoint that is central to global energy supplies.
Cold-box bus operators in Panamá Oeste suspended service until midday to demand a higher fuel subsidy and passage over the Bridge of the Americas. The protest disrupted commuters in one of Panama’s busiest transport corridors.