---
title: "Mulino Moves to Rewrite Tax Rules as Panama Seeks EU Delisting"
date: 2026-04-17
author: ""
url: https://panamadaily.news/panama-tax-code-eu-list/
categories:
  - "Economy"
  - "News"
  - "Politics"
tags:
  - "European Union"
  - "José Raúl Mulino"
  - "National Assembly"
  - "non-cooperative jurisdictions"
  - "Panama"
  - "tax code"
---

# Mulino Moves to Rewrite Tax Rules as Panama Seeks EU Delisting

## What Happened

Panama remains on the European Union’s list of non-cooperative jurisdictions, and President José Raúl Mulino is pushing for legal changes aimed at improving the country’s chances of being removed. The effort centers on amendments to the tax code, with the possibility of extraordinary sessions in the National Assembly becoming part of the strategy.

The move reflects the growing pressure Panama faces as it tries to align its rules with European standards. Even if lawmakers advance the changes, removal from the list is not automatic.

## Why the Tax Code Matters

The EU list is designed to identify jurisdictions that do not meet certain international standards on tax cooperation and transparency. For Panama, remaining on that list can affect its international standing and add pressure on policymakers to respond with legal reforms.

Adjusting the tax code is now a central part of Panama’s effort to show progress. The push underscores how fiscal policy and international diplomacy are increasingly linked, especially when countries are judged on compliance with external benchmarks.

## Political and Diplomatic Stakes

Mulino’s consideration of extraordinary legislative sessions signals urgency. Calling lawmakers back outside the normal schedule would allow the administration to move faster on reforms that may be needed before the next formal evaluation.

October 2026 is viewed as an evaluation date, not a guaranteed date for removal. That means Panama could still have to wait even after taking legislative action, depending on how European authorities assess the changes.

## What This Means for Panama

The situation places Panama at the intersection of domestic politics and international financial oversight. Any successful reform would likely be presented as evidence that the country is taking steps to strengthen its tax framework and improve cooperation with foreign partners.

For the government, the challenge is not only passing legislation but also convincing the EU that the reforms are substantial enough to matter. The coming months are likely to be important as Panama works to narrow the gap between domestic law and the standards required for delisting.