Panama launches B/. 310 million fund for SMEs following earthquake

Panama has introduced a B/. 310 million financial package to support micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) affected by the earthquake on October 9, 2026. The initiative consists of two main components: the Global Credit Program for Sustainable Economic Reactivation, which has an allocation of B/. 160 million (with B/. 100 million immediately available), and the Panama Guarantee Fund, which is endowed with B/. 150 million.

The program is being coordinated by the National Bank of Panama (Banconal), the Ministry of Economy and Finance (MEF), and the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB). The funds aim to provide working capital, cover operating expenses, and support productive investments to help businesses become more resilient and sustainable.

Finance Minister Felipe Chapman stated that resources will reach affected communities through expedited channels. The Guarantee Fund is specifically designed to facilitate credit access for clients who lack sufficient collateral, targeting strategic sectors such as agriculture, commerce, and services to stimulate economic productivity.