Panama City will welcome global business and political leaders for the World Free Zones Congress from May 12 to 14. The event focuses on the future of trade and investment in a rapidly changing global economy. Organizers aim to position free zones as engines for development and regional integration.<\/p>\n
The congress is organized by the World Free Zones Organization<\/a> in partnership with the Government of Panama<\/a>. Its theme is \u201cFree zones in the new global operating model: challenges and opportunities.\u201d The event seeks to create a strategic platform for dialogue and collaboration. Organizers want to promote resilient, digital and sustainable growth.<\/p>\n Panamanian President Jos\u00e9 Ra\u00fal Mulino will officially open the congress. The event brings together ministers, high-ranking officials and representatives from multinational organizations. More than 1,500 policymakers, business leaders and executives from free zones around the world are expected to attend. They will analyze geopolitical shifts, digital acceleration and the growing sustainability agenda.<\/p>\n Mohammed Al Zarooni, president of the World Free Zones Organization, highlighted the importance of the gathering. \u201cThe World Congress serves as a key platform to define the global trade agenda and redefine the role of zones as catalysts for sustainable economic growth,\u201d he said. \u201cThis edition underscores the importance of innovation, digital transformation and integrated economic ecosystems to drive competitiveness and long-term value creation.\u201d [Translated from Spanish]<\/em><\/p>\n \u201cThe congress provides a structured environment for knowledge exchange, public policy dialogue and partnership development, reinforcing the role of zones as platforms for innovation, investment and inclusive economic growth,\u201d Al Zarooni added. [Translated from Spanish]<\/em><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n A key goal of the congress is examining how free zones can strengthen their role. Officials want them to become motors of economic diversification, industrial development and regional integration. The event will feature ministerial roundtables, plenary sessions and leadership dialogues. Topics include digital transformation, sustainability and regional value chains.<\/p>\n Specific sessions include the Caribbean Ministerial Roundtable, the Latin America Ministerial Roundtable and the Mercosur Integration Roundtable. A BRICS+ Free Zones Roundtable is also on the agenda. The program emphasizes the impact of emerging technologies on competitiveness. Focus areas include artificial intelligence, smart infrastructure and digital trade.<\/p>\nGlobal Leaders Gather for Trade Discussions<\/h2>\n
\n
Free Zones as Economic Diversification Drivers<\/h2>\n