Coverage of national economic trends, policy decisions, and indicators that affect everyday life. We provide analysis of fiscal policy, employment, and growth drivers.
Panama is short on scientists and specialists in artificial intelligence, biotechnology, health and climate-related fields critical to future growth. Authorities say closing the gap will require stronger training, more scholarships and closer links between universities and business.
Copa Airlines has agreed to buy up to 60 Boeing 737 MAX jets in a deal valued at around $13.5 billion at list prices. The purchase strengthens Panama’s role as a regional aviation hub.
Panama Canal fees are climbing as oil cargoes shift away from the Middle East and increase demand for the route. The change underscores the canal’s central role in global energy shipping and Panama’s economy.
Copa Airlines will add up to 60 Boeing 737 Max jets over the next eight years in a $13 billion deal. The purchase reinforces Panama’s role as a major aviation hub in the Americas.
Copa Airlines will add up to 60 Boeing 737 Max jets over eight years in a major fleet expansion with Boeing. The deal strengthens Panama’s role as a regional aviation hub.
Shipping firms are paying up to $4 million to move vessels through the Panama Canal as they avoid risks tied to the Strait of Hormuz. The surge underscores the Canal’s role as a safer alternate route during global shipping disruptions.
The Trump administration is reviewing a peace proposal for Iran that could reopen the Strait of Hormuz while delaying nuclear talks. The diplomatic push comes as the war enters its 60th day and global markets brace for disruption.
Panama Canal fees are climbing as Middle East tensions push more oil tankers to reroute through the waterway. The surge highlights the canal’s central role in global energy shipping and Panama’s exposure to international trade shifts.
Brent crude climbed more than 1 percent after Iran proposed reopening the Strait of Hormuz in exchange for delaying nuclear talks. The move highlights renewed market anxiety over one of the world’s most important oil chokepoints.
Tensions between the National Assembly and Comptroller Anel Flores escalated after a postponed meeting and renewed pressure over unpaid-leave cases. Lawmakers also delayed debate on a controversial bioethanol bill and revisited a previous energy law.
A scientific study found that 27% of Panama’s land shows soil degradation, with the greatest impact in agricultural regions such as the Arco Seco and Veraguas. Researchers are urging stronger monitoring and more sustainable farming practices to protect productivity and food security.
Panama is projected to grow 4% in 2026, placing it among Central America’s strongest economies, according to the Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean. The forecast comes as the region faces slower growth, higher inflation and tougher global conditions.
The Panama Canal says it expects no water restrictions in 2026 despite the possible arrival of El Niño after May. Officials say reservoir levels are strong and savings measures are already in place.
Cobre Panamá is using the Feria Internacional de Azuero 2026 to showcase mining technology, including a trolley system and an AI avatar. The exhibit aims to make modern mining and sustainability easier for the public to understand.
MiBus general manager Carlos Sánchez Fábrega presented the company’s 2025 management report to a National Assembly committee, saying coverage exceeded 80%. He said 2026 priorities include modernizing the system and strengthening the electric fleet.
Panama recorded 84,067 new work contracts in the first quarter of 2026, up 16,923 from the same period last year. The increase was described as a sign of gradual labor market improvement.
Panama’s Pacific coast has lost its usual dry-season upwelling for the first time in 40 years, alarming scientists and fishermen. The change could disrupt marine ecosystems and coastal livelihoods.
The Panama Papers remain a defining symbol of offshore secrecy and the global struggle over tax transparency. Panama continues to be central to the debate over hidden wealth and financial opacity.
Panama’s rising residency costs are drawing attention as a major jump could make legal residence harder for middle-class foreign applicants. The change may reshape who can afford to move to the country and how Panama competes for international residents.
The IMA has scheduled agroferias for April 29 in multiple provinces and comarcas across Panama, starting at 8:00 a.m. Shoppers are asked to bring their ID and reusable bags.