Panama faces rising corruption and money laundering challenges

Panama faces significant challenges regarding corruption and money laundering. Statistics from the Public Ministry indicate a rise in convictions for crimes against public administration and money laundering. Between 2024 and 2025, there were 138 such sentences, while 2026 has already seen 164 convictions. Since 2024, the total number of condemnatory rulings, including plea agreements, has reached 575.

Attorney General Luis Gómez Rudy reported over 6,500 active cases in anti-corruption prosecutor's offices, with more than $9 million recovered during the current year. However, the economic impact of corruption far exceeds these recoveries. For instance, 'Operación Pandora,' involving alleged illegitimate tax credits, has caused patrimonial damage exceeding $40 million. This single operation's impact is higher than the $50.1 million recovered by the Public Ministry between 2018 and 2024.

Long-standing investigations, such as the Odebrecht case, continue to impact the legal landscape. The Brazilian construction firm admitted to paying over $100 million in bribes, and a sentence in Panama is expected in the coming months after more than 11 years of investigation.