Panama News
Panama Records USD 905.4 Million in Registered Exports, Marking a Strong Year for Trade
Panama closed the first eleven months of 2025 with registered goods exports totaling USD 905.4 million, according to data released by the Ministry of Commerce and Industries (MICI). The figure represents an increase of USD 25.6 million, or 2....
Panama Bans Single-Use Plastics in All Protected Areas Starting 2026
Panama has officially enforced a nationwide ban on single-use plastics across all protected areas as of January 1, 2026. The measure, enacted through a resolution issued by Ministry of Environment of Panama (MiAmbiente), applies to every zone...
Panama Canal Has Contributed Over $31.2 Billion to Public Finances in 26 Years Under Panamanian Control
Since the transfer of its administration to Panama 26 years ago, the Panama Canal has delivered a cumulative $31.231 billion to the national treasury, underscoring its central role in financing public services and supporting long-term economi...
Best Places to Retire and Live in Panama in 2026
Where to retire in Panama in 2026 — mountain towns, beach communities and Panama City neighbourhoods compared, with what each one offers and who it suits.
Panama to Begin Distribution of Medical Cannabis Products Through Authorized Pharmacies
Panama is preparing to take a new step in public health regulation with the upcoming distribution of medical cannabis products in authorized pharmacies nationwide. The initiative is being led by the Ministry of Health of Panama (Minsa) and fo...
WHAT TO EXPECT FROM PANAMA IN 2026
What is coming in Panama in 2026 — infrastructure, the economy and the changes most likely to matter to residents, buyers and anyone planning a move.
Panama Focuses Tourism Strategy on Culture and Nature for 2026
Tourism moves beyond post-pandemic recovery Panama is reshaping its tourism strategy with a clear emphasis on cultural heritage and natural attractions, according to Gloria De Leon, administrator of the Autoridad de Turismo de Panama (ATP). ...
Banistmo: One of Panama’s Expats’ Favorite Banks Just Changed Owner
Many expats and foreigners living in Panama are familiar with Banistmo. It is one of the most widely used banks in the country for everyday banking, salaries, online payments, and local transfers. This week, Banistmo announced a major change ...
Panama Approves $802,000 Study to Decide If the Panama–Paso Canoas Train Can Pay for Itself
The Panamanian government has approved a $802,460 consulting contract to determine whether the proposed Panama–Paso Canoas railway is financially viable over the long term. The contract was authorized by the Council of Cabinet and awarded ...
Panama Starts Reform of Forest Rules to Close Legal Gaps and Improve Environmental Protection
Panama Moves Forward With a New Forest Law Panama’s Ministry of Environment (MiAmbiente) is working on updating the country’s forest law, which has been in place since 1994. The goal is to modernize how forests are protected, managed, an...