Author: spieper

Planning your day or trip in Panama requires reliable weather information. This comprehensive Panama weather forecast provides an in-depth look at the atmospheric conditions influencing the country, helping you stay prepared. According to the latest report from Panama’s Institute of Meteorology and Hydrology (IMHPA), the national atmosphere remains “conditionally unstable.” This instability is driven by the development of the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ), shifting wind patterns, and low-pressure systems over both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea. Despite these dynamic conditions, authorities confirm no migratory tropical systems are expected to affect Panama in the coming days, meaning residents and…

Panama’s cattle industry is poised for a significant transformation as national authorities and international experts collaborate to unlock the country’s potential through advanced genetic improvement. A recent tour led by the Ministry of Agricultural Development (MIDA) and U.S. livestock genetics specialists assessed the current state of Panamanian cattle production, identifying key opportunities for growth and enhanced resilience. This initiative marks a critical step in strengthening the nation’s agricultural sector by focusing on the core of productivity: superior, climate-adapted genetics.Strategic Partnerships for a Stronger HerdSara Feliú, Director of Livestock at MIDA, led a delegation of American experts on a comprehensive tour…

The European Union has reaffirmed its stance on global tax cooperation by maintaining Panama on its list of non-cooperative jurisdictions for tax purposes, widely known as the EU tax haven blacklist. This decision, made during a meeting of EU finance ministers, marks the second consecutive update without change, highlighting ongoing concerns about tax transparency and fairness. Alongside Russia and nine other jurisdictions, Panama’s continued presence on this list signals that the EU Council believes the country has not yet fully implemented the necessary reforms it had previously committed to. This article breaks down the implications of this status for Panama’s…

In a significant legal and political development, Panama’s Supreme Court of Justice (Corte Suprema de Justicia or CSJ) has definitively dismissed a criminal complaint filed against former Panamanian President and current Central American Parliament (Parlacen) deputy, Juan Carlos Varela Rodríguez. This decision, which brings a swift end to a high-profile case, underscores the intricate legal frameworks governing judicial proceedings against high-ranking officials in the country. The ruling, resolved by the full court on July 17, 2025, was officially published on October 9, 2025, closing the case for good.Understanding the Supreme Court’s RulingThe Plenary of the Supreme Court issued a resolution…

The iconic canal has officially inaugurated its 2025-2026 cruise season with the northbound transit of the Queen Elizabeth cruise ship. This event marks the beginning of a bustling period for the interoceanic waterway, which is set to host more than 195 scheduled cruise transits. Despite a projected slight decrease in total transits due to industry-wide cost-optimization, this season is poised for excitement with the debut of five new ships and the arrival of record-breaking Neopanamax vessels, underscoring the enduring allure of this engineering marvel for global travelers and the cruise industry. A Strategic Shift in the Panama Canal Cruise Landscape…

The construction of the new vehicular bridge with a pedestrian walkway in the community of La Primavera, Chepo, has reached an impressive 90% completion, marking a significant milestone for regional infrastructure in Panamá. According to the Ministry of Public Works (MOP), this vital project will replace an old, demolished bridge that had developed dangerous structural faults, directly addressing long-standing safety concerns for both drivers and pedestrians. This new modular bridge, a key piece of public infrastructure, represents the government’s commitment to improving connectivity and safety for its citizens, ensuring smoother commercial and daily transit in the region.Project Overview: Replacing a…

In a significant move for environmental governance and corporate accountability, Panama’s Ministry of Environment (MiAmbiente) has officially commenced a comprehensive audit of the massive Cobre Panamá copper mine. The formal “orden de proceder” was granted to SGS Panamá Control Services Inc., initiating an intensive, six-month evaluation of the mining project located in Donoso, Colón. This landmark audit aims to conduct a thorough technical, environmental, social, legal, and fiscal review to verify the mine’s compliance with national and international regulations. This decisive action underscores the government’s commitment to transparency and responsible natural resource management, marking a pivotal moment for the country’s…

In a decisive move that underscores his administration’s priorities, Panama’s President José Raúl Mulino has issued a stark warning regarding the ongoing debate over teachers’ strike legislation. The president’s firm position on the teachers’ strike and his broader policy announcements signal a focused approach to governance, emphasizing constitutional integrity, economic stability, and educational reform. This article delves into the key statements from President Mulino’s recent address, analyzing their implications for the nation’s future and its citizens.A Constitutional Veto on the Horizon: The Teachers’ Strike DebatePresident Mulino directly confronted a legislative proposal that has sparked significant controversy. The initiative, put forward…

The Panamanian Ministry of Public Works (MOP), in collaboration with the construction firm TRANSEQ S.A., has initiated urgent road stabilization and slope reinforcement projects following the collapse of a critical highway section in the Chame district. This vital artery provides access for over 10,000 residents across four towns—Sorá, Altos del María, Filipinas, and El Picacho—and serves as a key route for tourists visiting the region’s popular waterfalls, trails, and scenic viewpoints. The situation underscores the critical need for resilient infrastructure in areas with challenging geography. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the road stabilization efforts, the geological challenges faced,…

In a landmark move for the nation’s financial sector, IDB Invest has acted as the anchor investor for the first sustainable bond issuance by Banistmo S.A., one of Panama’s leading banks. This pivotal transaction, aiming to mobilize up to $100 million in the local capital market, represents a significant step forward for sustainable finance and economic resilience in the country. It also marks IDB Invest’s inaugural participation in Panama’s public securities market, signaling strong confidence in the nation’s financial future and its commitment to green and social initiatives. What is a Sustainable Bond and Why Does It Matter? Before diving…