Panamanian employers report robust hiring intentions for the second quarter of 2026, led by the information technology and hospitality sectors. A new employment survey reveals the country’s net employment trend sits at 44 percent, placing it fifth globally for job market optimism. This positive data arrives as Panama contends with a 10.4 percent unemployment rate.
The latest Employment Expectations Survey from ManpowerGroup compiled responses from over 200 employers nationwide. It shows a significant 13 point lead over the global average for hiring plans. This marks a notable increase from both the previous quarter and the same period last year.
Information and Hospitality Sectors Lead Growth
Projections indicate the information sector, encompassing technology and communications, leads all industries with a 64 percent hiring intent. Hospitality follows closely at 63 percent. Finance and insurance firms report a 50 percent outlook, while construction and real estate sit at 48 percent. Commerce and logistics round out the top five with 45 percent.
Some sectors trail the national average. Professional, scientific, and technical services show a 34 percent hiring expectation. The public, health, and social services sector reports 29 percent. Despite these variations, the overall picture signals a recovering labor market.
“The results show a clear recovery in hiring intentions,” said Dadhjy Jimenez, a representative for the firm. [Translated from Spanish] “A net employment trend of 44 percent represents a significant increase from the previous quarter and the same period last year, positioning Panama among the countries with the best prospects worldwide.”
Small and medium-sized enterprises demonstrate the most dynamism. Companies with 10 to 249 employees show a 53 percent hiring outlook. In a stark contrast, large organizations with over 5,000 workers anticipate a contraction of 21 percent. This highlights an uneven recovery across different business segments.
Talent Shortage Presents Major Challenge
Employers face a significant hurdle despite their plans to hire. More than seven in ten companies globally report difficulty filling vacancies this year. Panama’s most challenging roles to fill are in sales, marketing, customer service, and engineering. A growing demand exists for professionals skilled in developing and applying artificial intelligence models.
Companies now prioritize soft skills alongside technical expertise. Communication, teamwork, professionalism, work ethic, and adaptability rank highly. Critical thinking for problem-solving and leadership are also in strong demand. This shift reflects the evolving needs of a modern workplace.
Globally, the manufacturing sector is hardest hit by talent shortages at 84 percent. The information sector follows at 73 percent, with finance at 72 percent. Construction, real estate, and hospitality all report a 60 percent impact. These widespread challenges are pushing employers to adopt new strategies.
Businesses are expanding their talent pools and strengthening training programs. Upskilling and reskilling initiatives have become common. Many companies now offer greater schedule flexibility to attract and retain workers. These adaptations are crucial for sustaining growth.
The overall forecast for Panama’s job market remains decidedly positive. Sector-specific growth, particularly in technology-driven fields, provides a strong foundation. Navigating the persistent talent shortage will be the key test for employers aiming to capitalize on this optimistic outlook.