The Ministry of
Economy and Finance (MEF) indicated that the Panamanian economy registered a
growth of 4.8% during the first quarter of 2026, according to the report on
Quarterly Gross Domestic Product (GDP) released by the National Institute of
Statistics and Census (INEC) of the Comptroller General of the Republic.
Source: EFE
This result reflects
a solid performance of national economic activity and far exceeds the average
growth observed in Latin America during the same period. Furthermore, the
growth achieved in the first quarter already surpasses the 3.9% annual
projection estimated by international organizations for Panama in 2026,
demonstrating a more dynamic start to the year than anticipated.
The report indicates
that GDP reached B/.22,550.7 million, representing an increase of B/.1,032.2
million compared to the same period in 2025.
Among the domestic
economic activities that drove this performance were retail and wholesale
trade, construction, land passenger transport, hotels and restaurants, real
estate and business activities, as well as arts, entertainment, creativity, and
other service activities. These results reflect broad and diversified growth,
supported by investment, consumption, and services.
Regarding sectors
geared toward international trade, the report highlights the growth of
operations at the Panama Canal, air transport, and commercial activities in the
Colón Free Zone, confirming the strength of the country's international logistics
and service platforms.
GDP results show that
the national economy maintained a growth trajectory at the beginning of 2026,
primarily supported by the dynamism of trade, construction, and services, as
well as the performance of strategic activities linked to international trade.
This economic
performance is complemented by a significant improvement in the country's
sovereign risk perception. Since 2024, Panama's risk indicators have decreased
by more than 65%, reflecting greater investor confidence in the fiscal
sustainability and growth prospects of the Panamanian economy.
The growth recorded
during the first quarter of 2026 confirms that Panama continues to advance in a
process of economic stabilization with solid foundations and genuine momentum,
supported by the recovery of strategic sectors, the strengthening of
confidence, and the execution of public and private investments that contribute
to development and job creation.