Silvia Mercedes Fábrega Sánchez has stepped into the top role at Panama’s Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise Authority (Ampyme). The former deputy director general now serves as acting director general following the resignation of Raúl Fernández de Marco. The official transition was formalized through an executive decree published in the Panama Official Gazette on July 17, 2026, under Digital Edition No. 30570.
Fábrega’s appointment comes at a critical juncture for Panama’s small business sector. She will hold the position until a permanent director general is formally appointed. The decree explicitly states that she bears full responsibility for all actions and omissions during her tenure as acting director. Her official duties began immediately upon taking office.
A Familiar Face Takes the Helm
This is not Fábrega’s first leadership role within the organization. She originally assumed the position of deputy director general on July 2, 2024, through a separate executive decree. Her rapid ascent through Ampyme’s ranks suggests a deep familiarity with the agency’s operations and strategic goals. The transition was triggered when Fernández de Marco, who had led Ampyme since July 2024, submitted his resignation. No official reason for his departure has been disclosed in the decree.
Ampyme operates as an autonomous state entity under Panamanian law. Its primary mission involves shaping and executing policies that support micro, small, and medium enterprises. The agency also works to create favorable conditions for business growth across the country. The legal framework for Ampyme’s existence and operations comes from Law 8 of March 29, 2000, which was later amended by Law 72 of 2009 and Law 186 of 2020.
‘The designation follows the resignation of former director Raúl Fernández de Marco, who had been appointed in July 2024’ [Translated from Spanish]
Why Ampyme Matters for Panama’s Economy
Small and medium businesses form the backbone of Panama’s economy. These enterprises employ a significant portion of the workforce and drive innovation in local markets. Ampyme’s role in providing access to financing, technical assistance, and market connections cannot be overstated. The agency’s stability directly impacts thousands of entrepreneurs who rely on government support programs.
Panama has made notable strides in MSME development policies in Latin America, with Ampyme serving as the primary vehicle for implementation. The agency coordinates with international organizations and local banks to create lending programs tailored to small business needs. These efforts have helped reduce barriers to entrepreneurship, particularly for women and young business owners.
Leadership transitions at Ampyme often signal shifts in policy emphasis. Fábrega’s background as deputy director suggests continuity in the agency’s strategic direction. However, her appointment also opens the door for potential recalibration of priorities. Business advocacy groups will be watching closely to see if she accelerates loan disbursement or introduces new training initiatives.
Legal Framework and Accountability
The executive decree governing Fábrega’s appointment carries specific legal weight. It establishes clear parameters for her authority and accountability. The document notes that she will answer for any actions or omissions committed while serving as acting director general. This provision aligns with standard practice for interim government appointments in Panama.
The decree’s publication in the Panama Official Gazette ensures public transparency. Citizens and business owners can access the official document to verify the terms of the appointment. This level of openness helps maintain trust in government institutions, particularly those that directly affect economic activity.
Panama’s legal system requires that all significant government appointments follow this formal process. The Gazette serves as the official record for executive actions, legislative changes, and administrative decisions. For Ampyme stakeholders, the published decree provides legal certainty about who holds decision-making authority.
What Comes Next for Ampyme
The search for a permanent director general will likely take several months. During this period, Fábrega must balance day-to-day operations with strategic planning. Her experience as deputy director should ease the transition for staff members and external partners. The agency’s ongoing programs, including loan guarantees and business counseling services, will continue without interruption.
Business owners who work with Ampyme Panama City offices can expect standard service levels during the interim period. The agency’s regional offices across the country will also maintain normal operations. Fábrega’s immediate priorities likely include reviewing the agency’s budget, meeting with key stakeholders, and ensuring compliance with legal mandates.
Panama’s small business community has grown increasingly vocal about the need for streamlined bureaucracy and faster loan processing. Fábrega’s leadership will be tested by these demands. Her success could shape Ampyme’s reputation for years to come. The agency’s next permanent director will inherit whatever momentum she builds during this transitional phase.