The general manager of the Colon Free Zone, Luisa Napolitano, has unveiled a comprehensive development plan to strengthen the position of the Americas’ premier commercial hub. This strategic initiative, announced this week, includes new development areas, infrastructure upgrades, water projects, and a technological modernization of the entire facility. The overarching goals are boosting competitiveness and generating more employment for the Atlantic region of Panama.
Napolitano confirmed that commercial activity remains stable compared to last year’s figures. The reexport segment continues to be the primary driver moving user inventories. She expressed optimism for a positive year-end result, highlighting a particularly strong performance in October. These new projects aim to build upon that steady commercial foundation.
While providing an update on the zone’s current performance, Napolitano shifted focus to its promising future.
“Many things are coming for the Free Zone, many things for my beautiful province,”
she stated. [Translated from Spanish] Her comments directly referenced the expansion plan intended to solidify the zone’s role as a key engine for the national economy.
The planned upgrades address both physical and digital infrastructure. Officials envision these improvements as critical for maintaining the Colon Free Zone competitive edge in a rapidly evolving global trade landscape. By creating new development areas and modernizing technology, the administration hopes to attract more businesses and streamline operations for existing users.
Stable Growth and Future Outlook
Napolitano provided specific insight into the zone’s current economic health during her announcement. She noted the consistent performance compared to 2024, a sign of resilience. The reexport business, which involves importing goods and then exporting them again without substantial transformation, is particularly robust. This activity helps businesses clear their stock efficiently.
“We are maintaining ourselves quite stable in comparison to 2024, especially in the reexport part, which is what helps users get rid of their inventories. We have not closed the year yet, but I hope it will be a positive year. October was very good,”
Napolitano affirmed. [Translated from Spanish] Her statement points to a cautiously optimistic forecast for the final quarter’s results.
The general manager’s emphasis on job creation for the Atlantic region underscores a key government priority. This expansion is not solely about commercial metrics. It is also a social development strategy for the province of Colon. New projects are expected to create significant employment opportunities during both construction and operational phases.
Full details regarding the project timelines and specific investment figures were not immediately disclosed. Further announcements are anticipated in the coming months as individual project plans are finalized. The zone’s management is now moving into the detailed planning and procurement stages to bring this vision to life.