Panama generated over 25 million dollars in direct investment from international film and television productions in 2025. The country’s Ministry of Commerce and Industries announced the figure this week, attributing the success to 31 foreign projects that chose to film in Panama last year.
Government officials now plan to aggressively expand promotional policies throughout 2026. Their goal is to establish Panama as a leading filming destination within Latin America, capitalizing on its diverse geography and modern infrastructure.
Audiovisual Sector Emerges as Economic Engine
Commerce and Industries Minister Julio Moltó presented the annual results, highlighting the sector audiovisual as a new driver for economic growth. He connected film production directly to job creation and local economic activity. Each project stimulates a wide network of services from hospitality to transportation.
“Every production that chooses Panama not only generates jobs and energizes the local economy, but also projects the country’s image to the world,” Moltó said. [Translated from Spanish]
The minister explained that international filming has a measurable impact on tourism and local employment. He confirmed that his team, alongside the Ministry of Culture, is developing a comprehensive film production incentive package. This plan aims to attract significantly more foreign productions in the coming year.
Ambitious Goals for Regional Leadership
Panama’s government sees no reason the country cannot compete with established regional film hubs. Officials pointed to the success of nations like the Dominican Republic as a benchmark for what is possible. The Dominican Republic currently attracts hundreds of millions in audiovisual investment annually.
“There is no reason why Panama cannot reach the investment levels that the Dominican Republic has, which today is around 400 million dollars in the audiovisual sector. We have two oceans, thousands of islands, and unique connectivity. Everything is within an hour. Panama is a natural destination for the film industry,” Moltó emphasized. [Translated from Spanish]
The country’s selling points are both natural and logistical. Producers can access rainforests, mountain ranges like those in the Ngäbe-Buglé Comarca, colonial architecture, and a modern metropolitan skyline all within a short distance. This variety reduces travel costs and complexity for film crews.
According to the Panama Ministry of Commerce and Industries, the 2025 film revenue contributed to a broader trend of productive investment. The ministry’s qualified investor program mobilized over 310 million dollars last year.
Streamlining for Future Growth
Plans for 2026 focus on removing bureaucratic hurdles that can deter international productions. The government promises a more agile regulatory framework and the digitalization of filming permits. A coordinated international promotion campaign will market Panama as a creative hub for the entire region.
This strategic push intends to serve not just traditional cinema but also the booming demand for content from global streaming platforms. The country offers a compelling package. It combines visual diversity with the professional services needed for large-scale projects.
Panama’s foray into competitive film attracting is still in a relatively early phase. The reported 25 million dollars in 2025, however, provides a strong foundation. It proves the model can work. With focused government support and streamlined processes, officials believe the sector’s growth has just begun.