Panama reports economic growth and business expansion

Panama is showing signs of economic expansion across several sectors. President José Raúl Mulino reported a 5.5% economic growth in the first half of 2026, exceeding IMF projections. During a meeting in New York, Citi Group CEO Jane Fraser expressed interest in expanding support for the country through global financing and international market access.

National economic data from the VII National Economic Censuses indicates significant growth in the business sector. Between 2011 and 2024, the number of companies in Panama rose by 34% to 57,159, while total business income reached over $100 billion. Employment also saw an increase, with the workforce growing to 520,661 people.

In the banking sector, Banco Nacional de Panamá has projected a 2027 budget of $2,532.6 million, an 8% increase from 2026. The bank plans to allocate $1,703.6 million specifically to loans, with a heavy focus on residential mortgages and the private sector.