Panama's MIDA expands agricultural support amid workforce challenges

Panama's Ministry of Agricultural Development (MIDA) is addressing both operational growth and structural administrative challenges. In the eastern province of Panama, the Ministry has supported the Asociación de Piñeros del Área Este, helping over 60 pineapple producers secure legal status. The initiative includes technical assistance for approximately 14 hectares of cultivation, with projections to expand to 120 hectares for export purposes.

MIDA is also conducting sanitary campaigns in the region, including controlling hematophagous bats to prevent bovine rabies and implementing cattle traceability programs to ensure export competitiveness.

However, Minister Roberto Linares has raised concerns regarding the Ministry's workforce sustainability. During a National Assembly Budget Commission hearing, Linares reported that 60% of MIDA's total staff and 50% of its professional ranks are retired. He noted that many retired employees continue to receive high salaries under special laws, which prevents the recruitment of younger professionals needed for field work. Linares emphasized that the current demographic imbalance and legal constraints regarding staff replacement hinder the institution's ability to function effectively in the agricultural sector.