---
title: "Panama courts Italian business ties as regional chambers meet in the capital"
date: 2026-04-10
author: ""
url: https://panamadaily.news/panama-italian-business-ties-regional-chambers/
categories:
  - "Business"
  - "Economy"
  - "News"
tags:
  - "business diplomacy"
  - "foreign investment"
  - "Italy"
  - "logistics"
  - "Panama"
  - "trade ties"
---

# Panama courts Italian business ties as regional chambers meet in the capital

## What Happened

Panama hosted a gathering of Italian chambers of commerce from across Latin America this week, with government officials and business leaders highlighting the country’s role as a regional hub for trade and investment.

Minister of the Presidency Juan Carlos Orillac welcomed the delegation on behalf of the Panamanian government and underscored the long-standing relationship between Panama and Italy. He described the Italian-Panamanian Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture as a bridge between the two countries built on friendship, commerce, and cooperation.

Orillac said the chamber has helped strengthen economic ties by supporting companies, promoting investment opportunities, and encouraging the exchange of business knowledge and culture.

## Why Panama Matters

The meeting comes as Panama continues to position itself as a commercial crossroads for companies seeking access to markets in Latin America. Orillac pointed to sectors such as logistics, industry, agriculture, and services as areas where cooperation between Panama and Italy has already contributed to economic activity.

He also said President José Raúl Mulino is committed to maintaining a favorable climate for investment, entrepreneurship, and international cooperation. That message aligns with Panama’s broader strategy of attracting foreign business through its geographic location, trade infrastructure, and network of free trade arrangements.

Vittorio De Sanctis, president of the Italian-Panamanian chamber, said the meeting focused on strengthening Italian business links in Panama while taking into account global shifts and Panama’s geopolitical importance. He said the country can serve as a bridge for the international expansion of Italian companies, including through Mercosur and the region’s free trade frameworks and free zones.

## Regional Business Ties

The gathering in Panama included delegations from Italian chambers of commerce across Latin America, which met in the country from April 8 to 12. Their presence highlights Panama’s appeal as a meeting point for regional business organizations looking to deepen connections with European firms.

Among those attending were Italy’s ambassador to Panama, Guiditta Giorgio; Mario Pozza, president of Assocamerestero; Aurelio Barría Pino, president of the Chamber of Commerce, Industries and Agriculture of Panama; along with invited guests and members of the diplomatic corps accredited in Panama.

The event reflects Panama’s continued effort to strengthen ties with international partners that can support trade, investment, and cross-border collaboration. For Italy and its business community, Panama remains a strategic point for reaching markets throughout the region.