Labor market trends show service growth in Panama and rising inactivity in Spain

Labor market data from Panama and Spain reveal distinct structural shifts. In Panama, September 2025 statistics from INEC show a highly tertiary-oriented economy, with the service sector accounting for 70.3% of total employment. A significant gender gap exists, with female unemployment at 13.2% compared to 8.1% for men. While urban employment grew by 2.4%, rural employment saw a decline of 1.1%. Occupational trends show growth in office roles and technicians, but contractions in agriculture and artisanal work.

In Spain, the inactive population—often referred to as 'ninis'—reached 17.4 million at the start of 2026, according to the National Statistics Institute (INE). This increase is driven by two main factors: an aging population, with over seven million people over age 70, and longer periods of education among youth. Notably, the 25-to-29 age group saw a 12% increase in inactivity compared to early 2025, likely due to individuals pursuing master's degrees or postgraduate studies. Additionally, 41,000 people are classified as 'discouraged,' meaning they wish to work but have ceased active job searching.