Coverage of national economic trends, policy decisions, and indicators that affect everyday life. We provide analysis of fiscal policy, employment, and growth drivers.
CADE 2026 will focus on Panama’s potential accession to the OECD, framing it as a chance for the country to help shape global economic rules. Supporters say membership would give Panama a stronger voice in international decision-making.
Ifarhu has started paying PASE-U and scholarships through ACH bank transfers to speed up payments and improve oversight of public funds. The shift aims to reduce delays, increase traceability, and ensure aid reaches the correct recipient.
A bill to raise payments for retirees and pensioners earning under $600 is moving to a second debate in Panama’s National Assembly. The proposal targets lower-income beneficiaries and could reshape support for thousands of older adults.
War in the Middle East has increased demand for Panama Canal transits, pushing costs higher as ships seek faster passage. One LNG vessel paid $4 million to skip the queue.
Escalating tensions in the Strait of Hormuz are pushing up shipping-related costs that also affect Panama Canal routes. The disruption underscores how global conflicts can quickly ripple through Panama’s maritime economy.
LONGi highlighted how anti-shading technology helped improve a solar project in Panama, underscoring the importance of resilient equipment in challenging site conditions. The example points to growing interest in solar solutions suited to the country’s tropical environment.
More than 15,000 people registered within hours to collect Cepanim certificates through Panama’s digital system. The MEF is using appointments and document checks to keep the process orderly and avoid long lines.
Panama Canal auction prices have quadrupled as the closure of the Strait of Hormuz shifts global energy shipping routes. The spike highlights the canal’s growing strategic value in a strained maritime network.
The Ministry of Economy and Finance says Cepanim payment amounts are not shown online and must be confirmed at its offices or by calling 506-6100. The guidance applies to retirees and beneficiaries of deceased pensioners.
Panama’s Assembly advanced bill 443, which would require all gasoline sold in the country to include 10% bioethanol. The proposal now faces further debate after lawmakers raised constitutional objections.
Tropigas has adopted Creatio to modernize mission-critical energy operations in Panama. The move reflects the growing use of digital tools to improve efficiency in essential services.
Star Princess has completed its first transit of the Panama Canal, marking a major milestone for Princess Cruises. The voyage underscores the canal’s enduring importance as a global maritime and tourism landmark.
The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world’s most powerful chokepoints, with the ability to shape energy prices, shipping costs and geopolitical tensions. Its importance also reaches Latin America through fuel and logistics impacts.
The Panama Canal Authority said a recent high-priced auction for an LPG vessel reflects market conditions, not a fixed canal fee. Traffic has risen as the Iran war disrupts trade routes and increases demand for canal transits.
Costa Rica has backed Panama amid a widening dispute over shipping terminals tied to the Panama Canal and Chinese interests. The controversy is drawing regional attention because of the canal’s importance to global trade.
Star Princess completed its first Panama Canal transit, marking a milestone for Princess Cruises and a prominent moment for one of Panama’s most iconic landmarks. The crossing underscores the canal’s lasting appeal in global cruise travel.
Copa Airlines is preparing a major 2026 push focused on expanding its regional network, enhancing digital service and reinforcing Panama’s role as a leading air hub. The strategy underscores how central Tocumen and aviation remain to the country’s connectivity and economy.
Panama Canal auction prices have quadrupled as shippers scramble for faster transit amid shifting global energy routes. The surge highlights the canal’s growing importance in volatile maritime markets.
Panama lawmakers are questioning a sharp rise in exceptional public contracts, which reached $1.237 billion in just 15 months. A new bill seeks to tighten the rules and curb the use of the emergency procurement channel.
The Panama Canal Authority says traffic is rising and auction prices are climbing, but it rejects claims of congestion or major delays. Global energy shifts are pushing more vessels to seek transit through Panama.