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 National Assembly resumed debate on Bill 443, a proposal to make ethanol blending mandatory in gasoline. Lawmakers split over consumer costs, competition, environmental concerns, and the country’s ability to supply the fuel mix.
Panama’s government and fishing sector leaders agreed to form a technical table to review regulations and support exports. The move aims to improve competitiveness and strengthen the industry’s market position.
The UNDP warns that a war in Iran and a closure of the Strait of Hormuz could push 30 million people back into poverty by disrupting fuel and fertiliser supplies. Panama and Latin America could feel the shock through higher import and energy costs.
The Ministry of Economy and Finance explained how the CEPANIM reference number is used and how the digital process works for beneficiaries and deceased relatives. The guidance aims to make the registration and follow-up steps clearer for families handling the procedure.
President José Raúl Mulino has appointed Antonio Manuel Tercero González as the new director of Idaan from a shortlist chosen by the agency’s board. The move places him in charge of Panama’s national water and sewer utility.
Casco Peatonal drew about 800,000 visitors in its first year and generated more than $14.5 million in economic impact in Panama City’s historic San Felipe district. The pedestrian initiative boosted tourism, culture and local business activity.
A standoff with Iran poses a much bigger global economic risk than past U.S. pressure campaigns against Cuba or Venezuela because Tehran can threaten a vital energy shipping route. Any disruption could quickly raise fuel prices and inflate costs worldwide.
Panama is weighing the economic damage from the closure of First Quantum’s copper mine, which had been a major source of jobs, exports, and public revenue. The shutdown is putting pressure on businesses, workers, and government finances.
President José Raúl Mulino met with Panama’s export fishing sector to advance a technical plan aimed at boosting exports and improving resource management. The industry says the effort could strengthen jobs, investment and sustainability.
CADE 2026 is focusing on Panama’s possible path toward OECD membership, with debates centered on transparency, fiscal sustainability, and public policy quality. The discussion highlights the reforms Panama may need to strengthen its international standing.
Panama’s Ministry of Economy and Finance has outlined the weekly and monthly fuel subsidy amounts for transport operators and fishermen. The measure is meant to ease fuel costs in sectors that depend heavily on daily operations.
The Panama Canal is seeing a sharp rise in traffic, with some days reaching its 40-transit daily limit and fiscal-year volumes up 5%. Officials say the waterway remains fully operational, supported by strong water levels and robust demand for energy and container cargoes.
The Panama Canal is seeing rising demand as global shipping continues to depend on the waterway for faster access between the Atlantic and Pacific. The trend reinforces the canal’s importance to Panama’s economy and world trade.
Panama has approved Law 518, allowing recycled tires to be used in asphalt for road construction. The measure promotes circular economy practices while aiming to cut pollution and lower road-building costs.
Trump has ordered U.S. forces to use deadly force against Iranian small boats in the Strait of Hormuz, escalating a dangerous standoff over a critical global shipping lane. The move comes after the U.S. seized another tanker linked to Iranian oil smuggling.
Auction slots at the Panama Canal have climbed above $1 million as shipping demand surges. The spike highlights the canal’s central role in global trade and Panama’s economy.
The Panama Canal said auction slots rising above $1 million reflect a temporary jump in demand for transit. The bidding shows how quickly shipping lines compete when access to the canal tightens.
Donald Trump’s remarks have renewed attention on the Panama Canal, spotlighting its role as a global trade route and a symbol of Panamanian sovereignty. The debate highlights how politically sensitive the canal remains for Panama.
A Panama labor lawyer says motorcycle couriers who believe they are misclassified may be able to take their case to court and present evidence. The comments highlight the tension between commercial contracts and labor protections in delivery work.
The Panama Canal reported higher transits and cargo volume in the first half of Fiscal Year 2026 as demand for reservations and auction slots increased. Officials said the waterway remains fully operational and is preparing for possible weather-related pressures later in the year.