Located right in the middle of the American continent, the Isthmus of Panama is the regional home to some of the world’s top companies. It is home to the world-famous Panama Canal, and to some of the region’s most important ports. The country also hosts the second-largest Special Economic Zone, the Colon Free Zone.
For more than a decade Panama has experienced unprecedented economic growth of almost 8.5% annually. This has placed Panama as the second-fastest growing economy in Latin America, after Chile. The country’s growth is thanks to, in large part, an explosive real estate and construction boom, and attractive government policies for inward investment.
REASONS TO INVEST IN PANAMA
Geographic Location
Panama is only 60 kilometers in width at its narrowest, and hosts a highway and waterway (the Canal) that links both the Pacific and Atlantic side.
Stability
The country is stable, with no major political or civil unrest. Since 1990, the Panamanian people have enjoyed successful democratic election processes.
Safety
Panama is relatively safe when compared to other countries in Latin America.
Currency
The official currency is the US Dollar, but local coins called Balboas are also used, and have the same denomination as USD.
Special Economic Zones
Panama hosts various Special Economic Zones, chief among them the Colon Free Zone and the Panama Pacifico Special Economic Area.
Trade Agreements
Panama has signed more than 20 free trade and association agreements with various countries, and is part of the European Union-Central America Association Agreement.
Connectivity
The country’s Tocumen International Airport has daily flights to major cities in the Americas and Europe, from Toronto to Buenos Aires, and Madrid to Istanbul.
PANAMA COUNTRY SNAPSHOT
Capital City
Panama City
Population
4 Million
Language
Spanish (official), English (commercial)
GDP
US$76.4 Billion (2015)
Inflation
2.6% (2014)
Annual Growth
6.4% (2014)
Economic Sectors
Services (75%) Industry (25%)
Unemployment
4.5%
Major Trading Partners
USA, EU, Central America & Caribbean, Colombia, Japan, Canada and Venezuela
Top Imports
Petroleum, vehicles, and pharmaceuticals
Top Exports
Fruits, seafood products, and iron scraps
Total FDI Stock in Panama
US$27 Billion (2012)
Total FDI Inflows to Panama
US$5 billion (2015)