A Return to the Moon; UV Radiation Alert in Summer; MINSA Warns of Skin Cancer Risks; Sun Protection Key Amid Extreme Heat.
Friday, January 30, 2026. A Return to the Moon Outside the norm of my page-turning, I recently looked into the philosphy of François-Marie Arouet known more readily as “Voltaire”, an 18th century, philosopher during a time of Enlightenment. Voltaire consistently argued that: • excessive emotion clouds judgment • reason allows distance, perspective, even humor • tragedy is intensified by unexamined feeling He is atributed to saying “Life is a tragedy for those who feel, and a comedy for those who think.” (There appears to be just too darn much feeling and not enough thinking.) Much of what dominates our attention today lies outside our control; public outrage, political division, and the constant demand for reaction. The disciplined mind learns to step back from such noise and focus instead on what is lasting, purposeful, and worthy of effort. Today, with little fanfare, humanity is preparing to return to the Moon. Not as an exercise in pride, nor as an escape from earthly concerns, but as a deliberate act of exploration and preparation. This modern space program is seldom discussed, yet it reflects a quiet commitment to reason, patience, and progress measured over generations rather than moments. Exploration undertaken with humility serves a greater good. It requires cooperation, restraint, and acceptance of difficulty, not for applause, but because it is right to advance knowledge and capability where we can. In times marked by polarization, such shared endeavors remind us that common purpose does not require uniform thought. To lift our gaze upward is not to ignore the world before us, but to gain proper perspective within it. Progress, when guided by reason and responsibility, remains possible. And in choosing to build rather than react, to prepare rather than despair, we affirm a simple truth: duty fulfilled in service of the future is never wasted. Brett Mikkelson Director, B.M. Investigations, Inc. – Private Investigations in Panama TOP NEWS and TIDBITS: European Commission Tightens Its Visa Policy and Links It to Cooperation on Returns The European Commission (EC) adopted on Thursday the European Union’s (EU) first-ever visa strategy, which entails stricter conditions for visa issuance and links it to various factors, such as cooperation by third countries on returns and readmissions. The strategy also envisages the suspension, refusal, or restriction of visas for states that carry out hostile actions undermining EU security, and places strong emphasis on attracting talent and using advanced digital tools for visa management. “With this strategy, we are putting Europe in order, with stronger borders and more effective returns,” said the European Commissioner for Home Affairs and Migration, Magnus Brunner, at a press conference. One of the pillars of the plan, the Commission explained, is strengthening EU security through stricter oversight of existing visa-free regimes “in order to ensure continued compliance and prevent the misuse of visa-free travel.” The EU maintains agreements with several countries—including Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, the United States, Canada, Japan, and South Korea—allowing their nationals to travel to the Schengen area without requiring a visa. The strategy also foresees amendments to Article 25a, which links visa policy to third-country cooperation on the readmission of irregular migrants, enabling the EU to adopt specific measures in cases of insufficient cooperation on returns and readmissions. Among these possible targeted restrictive measures are “the suspension, refusal, or restriction of visa applications in response to hostile actions by third countries that undermine EU security,” as well as the introduction of new measures to strengthen the security of travel documents in order to combat fraud. The strategy is also aimed at adopting new measures to attract and retain talent, making what the EC described as “legitimate travel” “easier, faster, and more predictable for tourists and business travelers.” Some of these measures include new digital procedures, such as the simplification and partial automation of pre-departure checks for visa-exempt travelers starting in the fourth quarter of 2026, the creation of multiple-entry visas, and improved conditions for talent, including the consideration of new legal frameworks for entrepreneurs, professors, and students. READ ORIGINAL ARTICLE HERE Moody’s: This Is the Year When Panama’s Credit Rating Is Decided—Either It Moves to Stable or Is Downgraded In an exclusive interview, Jaime Reusche, the new lead analyst for Panama’s rating, speaks about expectations, what has been done right, and the important role the National Assembly will play. “We do not believe there is any reason to go beyond this year to determine whether Panama remains investment grade with a stable outlook or loses its investment-grade status and is downgraded,” said Jaime Reusche, the new lead analyst for Panama’s rating at Moody’s. When Panama managed to maintain its investment-grade rating of Baa3 at Moody’s Ratings last November, the sense of relief was evident. The decision came at a time of high fiscal tension, with a deficit that had widened significantly in 2024. Although efforts were made in 2025, they were not sufficient to fully resolve the situation. The rating was maintained, but with a clear warning: the negative outlook remained in place and needed to be addressed. That definition will come this year. And it does not depend solely on the Executive Branch; according to the rating agency, the National Assembly will play an important role. The person now directly responsible for evaluating Panama is Jaime Reusche, an analyst with more than a decade at Moody’s, who recently assumed leadership of the country’s sovereign rating as part of a regular rotation process required by the U.S. regulator. He replaced Renzo Merino, who had covered Panama for 11 years. “The U.S. regulator always requires these responsibilities to be rotated from time to time to have fresh eyes looking at a country,” Reusche explained in an exclusive interview with SNIP Noticias from New York. Moody’s sees clear progress, but also a test that has yet to be fully passed: the country’s ability to act as an investment-grade sovereign when facing fiscal stress. Panama’s fiscal deficit declined from 7.3% to an estimated 4.4% in 2025, slightly higher than the government’s own projection
Embracing Change; Bioethanol Project; IAEA Technical Support; Panama Economic Activity Grows 4.37%.
Friday, January 23, 2026. Embracing ChangeI was sitting in a coffee shop the other morning with a large cinnamon cappuccino warming my hands and a chocolate croissant I probably didn’t need but absolutely enjoyed. I was there to write the intro for this week’s newsletter, expecting, out of habit, that my thoughts would land somewhere familiar: security, investigations, risk, human behavior. Instead, the speakers overhead were playing “Sign of the Times” by Harry Styles, and for a few minutes everything else faded out. The song isn’t loud or dramatic. It’s calm, honest and almost reassuring. And as I listened, my thoughts drifted away from work and toward something far more personal. My oldest son, Brett Jr., has just graduated high school and will be heading off to college in just a few months. He’s standing at that edge between adolescence and adulthood, excited, capable, and deeply uncertain. He’s thinking about who he’s supposed to become, whether he’s ready, and whether he’s making the right choices. In short, he’s doing exactly what a thoughtful young man should be doing at this moment in his life. As a father, I feel that tension right alongside him. Pride mixed with concern, confidence in who he is, paired with the natural worry that comes from knowing how unpredictable the world can be. You want to protect them from uncertainty, but you also know that uncertainty is where growth happens. Listening to that song also reminded me that these feelings aren’t limited to youth. Even as adults, major transitions can stir the same doubts and anxieties. Leaving the comfort and familiarity of Western civilization to start a life in a place like Panama, for example, can bring on those exact same questions: “Am I ready? Am I making the right move? What if this changes everything? What if I fail?” The truth is, meaningful change almost always feels uncomfortable at first. Whether it’s a young man stepping into adulthood or an adult stepping into an unfamiliar culture, progress rarely comes without uncertainty. The challenge and the opportunity is learning to embrace those moments, trusting that growth lies on the other side of them. That morning, the song felt like a quiet reminder that change is inevitable, fear is normal, and moving forward doesn’t require having everything figured out. We only need the willingness to step forward and believe that what the future holds can be good, even if it’s different from what we’ve known. This week’s intro isn’t about investigations or security. It’s about transitions. For me it’s about watching my boy prepare to take on the world. For you it could be remembering your own leaps into the unknown, and recognizing that embracing change is often the first step toward something better. Brett Mikkelson Director, B.M. Investigations, Inc. – Private Investigations in Panama TOP NEWS and TIDBITS: Government Promotes Bioethanol Project Expected to Generate More Than 10,000 Jobs The National Government urged the National Assembly to discuss as soon as possible the bioethanol bill, an initiative that, according to official estimates, would stimulate the economy, strengthen the agro-industrial sector, and generate more than 10,000 direct jobs and approximately 20,000 indirect jobs, primarily in rural areas. The call was made by the Minister of the Presidency, Juan Carlos Orillac, who emphasized that implementing the project would represent a significant investment for the country, in addition to delivering a positive environmental impact and serving as a strategic opportunity within the national energy policy. “We have once again submitted the bioethanol project, and its approval is what would allow it to move forward. It is a comprehensive project with a positive environmental impact that generates substantial employment in rural areas. It is estimated that it could create around 10,000 direct jobs and about 20,000 indirect jobs,” Orillac stated. Government Calls on the Assembly to Debate the Bioethanol Project The minister’s remarks were made during the opening of the forum Bioethanol: Job Creation, an Opportunity for Agriculture, and an Economic Catalyst, organized by the Panama Association of Sugars and Alcohols (AZUCALPA) and the Panamanian Industrialists Association (SIP). Orillac explained that while the bill is being reviewed by lawmakers, the Government continues to engage with the private sector, the agro-industrial industry, and producers—including independent farmers—with the aim of addressing concerns and ensuring that bioethanol development becomes a joint effort with a high social and economic impact. “Part of what has been requested is to facilitate financing for small producers through state-owned banks so they can be integrated into this production scheme. Today, there are more than 320 independent sugarcane producers, and this number could double,” he noted. Panama and Its Dependence on Fossil Fuels The minister underscored that Panama lacks significant fossil fuel resources and depends almost entirely on imported fuels, exposing the national economy to international price volatility and affecting the trade balance. In this context, bioethanol emerges as a viable alternative within a sustainable energy policy. “If the project is approved, 10% of fuel costs would no longer leave the country and would remain here, energizing the economy. It is a direct benefit for rural areas and job creation,” he emphasized. Meanwhile, Rosmer Jurado, president of the SIP, stressed that the bioethanol debate must be conducted with information, data, and a national vision, noting that it is not merely about fuel, but about a value chain that can translate into employment, investment, agro-industrial development, improved air quality, and greater energy resilience. “We are talking about tangible opportunities. A program of this nature can generate jobs, drive investment in equipment, irrigation, expanded cultivated areas, and new productive capacities,” he stated. During the forum, panelists agreed on the need for the project to be approved and properly regulated in order to establish clear rules and legal certainty that guarantee return on investment and enable increased sugarcane production to meet the program’s objectives. READ ORIGINAL ARTICLE HERE The First Specialized Medical Cannabis Pharmacy Opens The Ministry of Health has already given the green light, and seven licenses have been granted for the commercialization of medical cannabis. One of them has already
Quiet Lessons From Noisy Times; U.S. to Suspend Visas for 75 Countries; Advisory Services for Panama–David Train; Moody’s Projects USD 3 Trillion Investment in Data Centers.
Friday, January 16, 2026. Quiet Lessons From Noisy Times Watching the unrest and polarization around immigration and enforcement in the U.S. has made me reflect on something important for those of us living abroad, especially expats in Panama. One of the biggest reminders is that legal status always matters. Things can feel stable for a long time, right up until they don’t. Keeping documents current and understanding where you stand legally isn’t paranoia, it’s just good sense. It’s also a reminder that visibility isn’t always your friend. In a country that isn’t your own, integration tends to serve you better than loud political expression. Panama is generally tolerant and welcoming, but it’s also institutionally conservative, and foreigners are expected to observe more than lead. Another lesson is how much tone and approach matter. Respect for local enforcement, calm interactions, and understanding how things work locally go much further than arguing or trying to import expectations from elsewhere. Along the same lines, even basic Spanish dramatically reduces friction. You don’t need to be fluent; effort alone changes how people respond. Community plays a bigger role than many realize. Knowing your neighbors, building staff, and local shop owners creates a quiet buffer that no online group ever will. When people know you, things tend to go smoother. It’s also worth remembering that Panama doesn’t frame issues the way the U.S. does. Left vs. right culture wars don’t translate well here, and forcing that lens often creates unnecessary tension. Local concerns are usually practical, not ideological. Finally, media (especially social media) rarely reflects daily reality. What’s trending online often has very little to do with life here on the ground. Panama remains one of the most stable and welcoming countries in the region, but stability is a two-way agreement. The expats who thrive here tend to be prepared, discreet, respectful, and integrated. Those who struggle often bring expectations, arguments, and cultural battles that don’t belong to the local context. Not politics, just perspective. Brett Mikkelson Director, B.M. Investigations, Inc. – Private Investigations in Panama TOP NEWS and TIDBITS: Assembly Prepares to Debate Bill on Mandatory Use of Bioethanol in Fuels The discussion about the country’s energy future is beginning to gain momentum. This Thursday, the Trade Commission of the National Assembly held a forum with specialists to analyze the benefits, risks, and challenges of the bill that seeks to reactivate the use of biofuels in Panama. The initiative, presented last October by the Minister of the Presidency, proposes making it mandatory to incorporate 10% ethanol into gasoline distributed at more than 600 service stations nationwide. According to statements by the president of the Trade Commission, Deputy Ernesto Cedeño, and the president of the Assembly, Jorge Herrera, the bill’s first debate will begin after January 30. Key points • Regulation and permits: The National Energy Secretariat would be responsible for issuing authorizations for the production and use of ethanol.• Interested companies: Four Panamanian companies have expressed their intention to invest in bioethanol production, although they are requesting a clear legal framework that guarantees the security of their investments.• Impact on prices: The Energy Secretary stated that no significant increase in consumer costs is expected, although this will depend on the evolution of international prices of ethanol and gasoline.• Expected benefits: The potential to boost agriculture in rural areas, generate employment, and contribute to environmental protection and public health was highlighted. READ ORIGINAL ARTICLE HERE Companies Report Improved Sales and Greater Optimism for 2026 Companies closed December 2025 with clear signs of a recovery in sales and greater optimism looking ahead to 2026. The Positive Sales Trend reached 58%, the highest level recorded in the past 24 months, driven both by improved performance compared to the previous month and by favorable expectations for the coming year. These results correspond to the 48th edition of ELEMENTE’s Economic Activity Report, prepared with the participation of 219 companies from different sectors. Among the main findings of the report are: § 79% of companies expect to increase their sales in 2026.§ 87% plan to maintain or increase their number of employees over the next 12 months; 34% anticipate new hires.§ 80% of companies expect better economic conditions in 2026.§ 74% project a better investment climate for the coming year. By sector, activities linked to tourism showed the best performance, with hotels recording a positive sales trend of 92%, while the energy sector reported the lowest level, at 41%. The report also identifies the main business challenges for 2026, including human capital management, commercial challenges, and issues related to government and regulation. As a new feature, a new monthly measurement was introduced—the Economic Confidence Level—which stood at 8.4 out of 10 in December. READ ORIGINAL ARTICLE HERE U.S. to Suspend Immigrant Visas for Citizens of 75 Countries The United States (U.S.) will suspend the processing of immigrant visas for citizens of 75 countries whose migrants—according to the State Department—benefit from social assistance funded by the American people. The measure was officially announced by the government agency, which stated that the decision is part of a review of immigration policies and public spending controls. U.S. to Suspend Immigrant Visas for Citizens of 75 Countries Among the countries confirmed to be affected by this suspension are Somalia, Haiti, Iran, and Eritrea, although the full list of the 75 nations included has not yet been released. The State Department did not specify the exact date the measure will take effect, nor whether humanitarian exceptions or special cases will be considered. READ ORIGINAL ARTICLE HERE Contract Authorized for Technical Advisory Services on the Panama–David Train Project The Cabinet Council approved Resolution 145-25, which authorizes contracting through an exceptional procedure between the National Railway Secretariat (SNDF) and the U.S. company AECOM USA, Inc. to provide technical and strategic advisory services for the development of 20% engineering of the Albrook–Sajalices segment and the consolidation of studies for the feasibility document of the Panama–David–Border Train Project, for an amount of US$4.17 million. According to a statement
Not Everything Has To Be An Emergency; Venezuela Frees Political Prisoners; New Minimum Wage Rates Take Effect January 16; Digital Payments Grow but Face Adoption Barriers.
Friday, January 9, 2026. Not Everything Has To Be An Emergency One of the goals I set for myself, both as part of a sincere effort to be a better person and to use my time more wisely, was to stop automatically saying “yes” to last-minute “I need it right now” requests. So far, I’ve already failed twice, which is frustrating precisely because I know better. The most recent example came via a WhatsApp message from someone I’ve known for years, asking whether I could arrange security coverage in Colombia the following day. Coordinating security anywhere in Latin America is something I can do efficiently, but this request arrived at 11:38 p.m. for a 1:00 p.m. deployment the next day and it was incomplete. They didn’t even know which city they would be in!! Despite this, I made the mistake of moving forward. I had my office prepare a quote, coordinate vehicles, and pull in team members. In the end, it was a complete waste of time. By the stated deadline, we had delivered everything initially requested, only to be met with a new wave of demands: additional references, agent profiles, licenses, and, on top of that, a request for a discount on an already negotiated daily rate. When we were unable to meet this expanded list of requirements within what the client subjectively considered a “timely manner,” the job was ultimately awarded to someone else. This situation closely mirrors principles outlined in The One Minute Manager, which addresses how leaders should handle recurring last-minute demands. The book emphasizes that these situations are rarely true emergencies; more often, they are the result of unclear expectations and uncorrected behavior. Its guidance is to address the issue immediately, focus on the behavior rather than the individual, and reaffirm the professional relationship. When expectations, timelines, and consequences are made explicit, the cycle of last-minute requests tends to diminish. That said, going forward, I am putting my foot down. At a minimum, for the rest of this year, I will be holding firm to my standards, respecting my own time, and no longer allowing urgency, especially poorly defined urgency, to dictate my decisions. Brett Mikkelson Director, B.M. Investigations, Inc. – Private Investigations in Panama TOP NEWS and TIDBITS: Venezuela Frees a “Significant Number” of Political Prisoners, Including Foreign Nationals A “significant number” of detainees held for political reasons, including foreign nationals, were released in Venezuela, the head of Parliament announced on Thursday, without providing further details. These are the first releases under the interim administration of Delcy Rodríguez, who assumed office on a temporary basis following a U.S. military operation on January 3 in which the ousted president, Nicolás Maduro, and his wife, Cilia Flores, were captured. Both are currently in New York, where they are facing justice on multiple charges, including drug trafficking. “For the sake of peaceful coexistence, the Bolivarian government, together with state institutions, has decided to release a significant number of Venezuelan and foreign individuals,” said the head of the National Assembly, Jorge Rodríguez. “These release processes are taking place as of this very moment,” he stated in remarks to the press at the Legislative Palace, without specifying how many people will be freed. The parliamentary leader thanked former Spanish Prime Minister José Luis Rodríguez Zapatero, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, and Qatar, “who promptly responded to the call” of the interim president, he noted. “It is a unilateral gesture by the Bolivarian government,” Rodríguez said. The NGO Foro Penal reports that there are 806 political prisoners in Venezuela, 175 of them members of the military. READ ORIGINAL ARTICLE HERE AMP Clarifies That “Shadow Fleet” Vessels Were No Longer Registered in Panama The Panama Maritime Authority (AMP) clarified on Thursday that the oil tankers Bella 1 and M Sophia, recently intercepted by the United States Coast Guard, were no longer part of the Panama Ship Registry at the time of the incidents. According to the official statement, the vessel Bella 1 ceased to be registered under the Panamanian flag on October 7, 2024, while the vessel M Sophia was deregistered on January 23, 2025. The AMP reported that the oil tankers Bella 1 and M Sophia have been linked to the so-called “shadow fleet.” The clarification follows a statement from the White House indicating that both vessels were allegedly connected to the so-called “shadow fleet,” purportedly used by the regime of Nicolás Maduro to evade international sanctions. The AMP reiterated that Panama maintains strict controls over its maritime registry and that the vessels in question were not operating under the Panamanian flag at the time they were intercepted by U.S. authorities. The Panama Ship Registry is one of the largest in the world and, in recent years, has strengthened its oversight and vessel cancellation mechanisms for ships that fail to comply with international standards, as part of its commitment to transparency and maritime security. READ ORIGINAL ARTICLE HERE Extension of Line 1 Has Increased Its Cost by Nearly $100 Million The Office of the Comptroller General of the Republic approved a fourth addendum to the contract for the extension of Line 1 from San Isidro to Villa Zaíta, in the amount of thirty-five million seventeen thousand six hundred eighty dollars and fifteen cents ($35,017,680.15). According to the register of approvals published on the Comptroller’s Office website, this is the fourth addendum to Contract No. MPSA-04-2020 for design engineering services, construction of civil works, auxiliary line installations and stations, and interfaces with the integrated railway system for the extension of Line 1. What is noteworthy about this approval is that the addendum does not appear on the Panamá Compra portal. It is known that on November 18, 2025, the Cabinet Council authorized Metro de Panamá, S.A. to directly contract the Japanese and French companies Nippon Koei Lac, Inc., Systra, and Nippon Koei Co., Ltd. to manage the final works remaining on the line extension, which has been operational since April 2024. Through direct contracting, the aforementioned companies will oversee project management for 22 months,
Happy New Year; Panama Secures US$1.9 Billion World Bank Loan; 2026 World Cup Breaks Ticket Demand Records; Panama Closes 2025 with Record Tourism and Events.
Friday, January 2, 2026. Happy New Year to our Readers, Colleagues, and Friends As we step into 2026, we do so with gratitude, perspective, and renewed determination. The past year challenged us in meaningful ways, none more so than the effort required to establish our new office. Building something the right way is never easy, and the process tested our patience, discipline, and resolve. But those challenges also strengthened our foundation and clarified our direction. Leadership, after all, requires action and the willingness to move forward even when the outcome is not guaranteed. As Peter Drucker wisely said, “The best way to predict the future is to create it.” That belief continues to guide our decisions as we invest in growth, innovation, and the people who make our work possible. Looking ahead, our hope for 2026 is continued, sustainable growth, not only for our organization, but for our clients, partners, and the communities we serve. We remain committed to professionalism, integrity, and delivering real value in every engagement. Thank you for your trust, your support, and for being part of our journey. May the year ahead bring clarity, progress, and success for all of us. Happy New Year. Brett Mikkelson Director, B.M. Investigations, Inc. – Private Investigations in Panama TOP NEWS and TIDBITS: Influenza Leaves 99 Dead So Far in 2025, According to a Ministry of Health (MINSA) Report Influenza-related deaths in the country increased to 99, according to the most recent report from the Ministry of Health, corresponding to Epidemiological Week No. 50, indicating that 2025 would close with that total number of deaths associated with the disease. According to the Department of Epidemiology, during the week of December 7 to 13, 2025, one new influenza-related death was reported, in addition to the update of one death corresponding to Week 48, bringing the annual total to 99 fatalities. Of the total number of deaths, 86.9% (86) had not been vaccinated against influenza, while 91% (91) had risk factors, including age-related conditions, metabolic diseases, cardiovascular diseases, immunosuppression, neurological conditions, and respiratory diseases. Other respiratory diseases Regarding influenza-like illness, during Epidemiological Week 50, 984 cases were recorded, with a rate of 21.5 per 100,000 inhabitants. So far in 2025, the cumulative total stands at 52,281 cases, with a rate of 1,144.3. Meanwhile, Severe Acute Respiratory Infections (SARI), which include bronchopneumonia and pneumonia, reported 545 cases during the analyzed week, with a rate of 11.9 per 100,000 inhabitants. The annual cumulative total reached 20,375 cases. Dengue and malaria with more cases nationwide The epidemiological report details that no Zika cases were reported during Week 50, maintaining a cumulative total of 2 cases in 2025. In the case of dengue, up to Epidemiological Week No. 50, a total of 15,657 cumulative cases were recorded nationwide, of which 13,880 were without warning signs, 1,670 with warning signs, and 107 corresponded to severe dengue. For chikungunya, no new cases were reported during the week; however, four cases from previous weeks were updated, bringing the annual total to 35 cases. Leishmaniasis reported 23 cases during the current week, with a cumulative total of 1,439 cases in 2025. Additionally, 115 malaria cases were reported, for a cumulative total of 11,037 cases during the year. Four deaths remain on record, all in women between 14 and 94 years of age, registered in the regions of Eastern Panama (2), Veraguas (1), and Darién (1). Regarding Oropouche virus disease, one new case was reported in Eastern Panama, along with the update of three cases from previous weeks in Eastern Panama and Coclé, reaching a national cumulative total of 694 cases in 2025. Other diseases As for hantavirus fever, no cases were reported during Week 50, maintaining a cumulative total of 27 cases for the year. Hantavirus cardiopulmonary syndrome reports 22 cumulative cases. Leptospirosis totals 90 cases so far in 2025, while human screwworm cases have reached a cumulative total of 114 cases. For monkeypox (Mpox), no cases were reported during Epidemiological Week 50, maintaining a total of 16 cases in 2025. MINSA urges stricter hygiene measures Meanwhile, the Ministry of Health reiterated the importance of community participation and the support of local governments to reduce the spread of diseases, and called on the population to maintain preventive measures such as frequent handwashing, use of alcohol-based hand sanitizer, wearing face masks, seeking medical attention when symptoms appear, covering coughs or sneezes, avoiding self-medication, and promptly visiting the nearest healthcare facility. READ ORIGINAL ARTICLE HERE Chinese Association Calls for Investigation into the Demolition of the Bridge of the Americas Monument The Chinese Association of Panama formally requested an investigation into the procedure used to demolish the monument located at the Bridge of the Americas viewpoint, which was built in honor of workers of Chinese origin, and called for the structure to be rebuilt at the same site. The organization’s spokesperson, Esteban Cheung, questioned the safety-risk argument put forward by the Mayor’s Office of Arraiján and stated that the Chinese community had been offering support for the maintenance of the park since March, without receiving any response. “That safety-related argument is difficult for us to believe. Until yesterday, tourists were still visiting the park. Since March, we had been requesting collaboration in order to make our contribution,” Cheung said. They point to lack of communication and due process The spokesperson explained that attempts to establish communication with the Mayor’s Office of Arraiján began in June of last year, although it was not until March of this year that they were finally able to meet with municipal authorities. During that meeting, representatives of the community submitted a request for a 20-year renewal of the land-use permit, along with a formal maintenance proposal, in light of the evident deterioration of the area. Cheung noted that the community reiterated its willingness to cooperate on three additional dates—April 23, June 19, and July 1—without receiving any response. “We did not receive any response until last night, through an action we consider arbitrary and surprising. There was
Season´s Greetings; Police Seize Over 44,000 Drug Packages in 2025; Health Authorities Warn: No Safe Fireworks for Children; Ministry of Health Alerts on Rise in Respiratory Viruses.
Friday, December 26, 2025. Season´s Greetings As the year comes to a close, I want to take a moment to extend my warmest season’s greetings to our readers, colleagues, partners, and friends. This time of year is meaningful in many different ways across cultures, faiths, and traditions. Whether it is a moment for celebration, reflection, gratitude, renewal, or quiet time with family, it offers us all an opportunity to pause, look back on the year behind us, and look forward with hope to the year ahead. Regardless of how or what you celebrate, I sincerely wish that this season brings you peace, good health, and meaningful moments with those closest to you. May it also offer time to rest, reconnect, and refocus on what truly matters—both personally and professionally. I would also like to express my heartfelt gratitude to Panama and its people for the constant hospitality, warmth, and openness shown to me and my family. From day-to-day kindnesses to a deep sense of community, Panama has welcomed us in ways that go far beyond geography. It is a privilege to live, work, and raise a family in a country that consistently demonstrates generosity of spirit and respect for others. As we move into a new year, I am thankful for the trust, collaboration, and relationships built along the way. Wishing everyone a safe, peaceful, and meaningful holiday season, and a year ahead filled with health, opportunity, and purpose. Brett Mikkelson Director, B.M. Investigations, Inc. – Private Investigations in Panama TOP NEWS and TIDBITS: Immigration Registers High Demand Due to Change of Residency Moratorium The National Immigration Service reported that the high volume of visitors registered at its main office, located on Ricardo J. Alfaro Avenue, is due to the current moratorium period for the change of residency process, which remains in effect until December 31, 2025. This measure has resulted in an increased influx of users seeking to complete their immigration procedures within the established timeframe. “We are working continuously with the objective of providing efficient, orderly, and timely service,” the agency stated. READ ORIGINAL ARTICLE HERE National Police Seize More Than 44,000 Drug Packages During 2025 The National Police reported that, so far in 2025, a total of 44,795 packages of illicit substances have been seized as a result of 19,324 search and seizure operations carried out in different parts of the country, in coordination with the Public Ministry. According to the official report, part of these seizures took place in vehicles modified with hidden compartments, as well as in containers located at ports on both the Atlantic and Pacific coasts, allegedly used for drug trafficking. Regarding operational actions, authorities detailed that during the current year, 62,038 individuals have been apprehended for various offenses. Of this total, 381 correspond to homicide cases, while 14,512 people were detained for administrative violations. Within the framework of the “Safe Year-End 2025” operations, police officers remain deployed across different sectors of the country with the objective of strengthening public security and bringing individuals linked to crimes against collective security, among other offenses, before the competent authorities. READ ORIGINAL ARTICLE HERE Ministry of Health Issues Alert Over Increase in Respiratory Viruses and Calls for Vaccination Reinforcement The Ministry of Health (MINSA) reiterated to the public the importance of reinforcing biosecurity measures in light of the increase in respiratory viruses circulating in the country in recent weeks. According to the latest epidemiological report, Panama has recorded more than 51,000 cases of influenza-like respiratory syndrome so far this year, with active surveillance ongoing for viruses such as Influenza A (H1N1), Influenza A (H3N2) — including its K subclade — parainfluenza, SARS-CoV-2, and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), the latter having a greater impact on the pediatric population. Influenza: More Than 7,000 Cases and 99 Deaths, According to MINSA Regarding influenza, MINSA reported more than 7,000 cumulative cases and 99 deaths nationwide. Of the total fatalities, 86.9% involved unvaccinated individuals, while 91% had underlying risk factors, highlighting the increased risk of severe complications among those without immunization. Health authorities also confirmed that, to date, three cases of Influenza A (H3N2), K subclade, remain confirmed in the country. Call for Early Detection and Timely Care The Director General of Public Health, Dr. Yelkys Gill, emphasized that continuous epidemiological surveillance enables early detection of circulating viruses and the timely adoption of measures to protect the population. “Permanent surveillance allows us to identify early the respiratory viruses that are circulating and to adopt the necessary measures to protect the population, especially high-risk groups,” the official stated. Dr. Gill urged the public to seek immediate medical attention at health centers if symptoms such as fever, cough, nasal congestion, or breathing difficulties appear, noting that early detection reduces the risk of complications. Recommended Preventive Measures MINSA reiterated the importance of maintaining the following preventive measures: Completing vaccination schedules is especially recommended for: Authorities stressed that vaccination remains the primary tool for protection, particularly against severe cases associated with influenza and other respiratory viruses. READ ORIGINAL ARTICLE HERE Food Poisoning: It’s Best to Trust Your Senses Jorge Jesús Rodríguez, a physician with the Ministry of Health (MINSA), stated that in order to avoid food poisoning during traditional year-end meals, it is important to take certain precautions, noting that the first line of safety is oneself. “The first line of safety, whether eating at home or outside the home, is oneself. In that sense, we must trust our senses. The first is sight—if we see something unusual in the food, it is better not to consume it. The next would be smell,” he emphasized in an interview with Nex Noticias. Rodríguez recalled that there is a certain level of risk when food is left exposed for more than two hours after being prepared and served. He therefore recommended keeping hot foods hot and cold foods cold. The physician identified nausea as the first symptom that something is wrong, followed by vomiting, abdominal pain, increasing diarrhea, fever, and loss of appetite. “These are the
Why “Half-Assing” Anything Costs More Than You Think; $500M Loan for Agro & SMEs; Panamá Innova Funds 42 Projects; Corridor to Protect Manatees.
Friday, December 19, 2025. Why “Half-Assing” Anything Costs More Than You Think There’s a quiet habit that creeps into organizations and personal lives alike—half-assing things.Doing just enough to get by. Winging it instead of preparing. Finishing a task technically, but not properly. The problem isn’t just the task itself.The real danger is what it trains your brain to accept. When you consistently cut corners, you condition yourself to operate at the lowest acceptable standard. That mindset doesn’t stay contained to one project—it spills into everything: decision-making, communication, follow-through, and ultimately, character. Over time, “good enough” becomes the default, and excellence starts to feel optional. From the outside, half-assing is visible. People may not always call it out, but they notice. It erodes trust, damages reputation, and quietly redefines how others perceive your reliability and professionalism. In industries where credibility matters, that’s a price few can afford to pay. The truth is, most half-assed work isn’t caused by laziness—it’s caused by poor preparation. When you don’t plan ahead, don’t clarify expectations, or don’t allocate the right time and resources, you end up scrambling. And scrambling almost always leads to shortcuts. Preparation is the antidote. Professionals who consistently deliver quality work do a few simple things differently: Completing a task fully—the right way—isn’t about perfectionism. It’s about respect: for the work, for the client, for the team, and for yourself. If something is worth doing, it’s worth doing properly. Not halfway. Not rushed. Not “good enough.” Because how you do small things is exactly how you’ll be trusted with bigger ones. Brett Mikkelson Director, B.M. Investigations, Inc. – Private Investigations in Panama TOP NEWS and TIDBITS: Panama Canal Delivers US$2.965 Billion to the Government of Panama The Panama Canal delivered US$2.965 billion to the National Treasury, corresponding to economic surpluses, transit tonnage fees, and payments for public services provided by the State. The figure is higher than the US$2.470 billion delivered previously, an increase of about US$495 million. The ceremony was held in the province of Colón, at the facilities of the Fleet and Equipment Administration and Maintenance Division on the Atlantic side, where the President of the Republic, José Raúl Mulino, received the contributions to the State from Canal employees, representing the Canal workforce. Following the approval of the Panama Canal’s financial statements for the fiscal year from October 1, 2024, to September 30, 2025, the Board of Directors declared US$2.372 billion as an economic surplus from the operation of the interoceanic waterway. To this amount, US$591 million in tonnage rights payments were added. The direct contributions also include US$2 million for payments related to public services provided by the State. During fiscal year 2025, the return of lake levels to normal conditions made it possible to maintain a 50-foot draft, even during the dry season. As a result, the average daily number of deep-draft transits reached 33, compared to 27 recorded the previous year, which had been affected by the El Niño phenomenon. The event was also attended by the Minister for Canal Affairs, José Ramón Icaza; the Minister of Economy and Finance, Felipe Chapman; the Canal Administrator, Ricaurte Vásquez Morales; and the Deputy Canal Administrator, Ilya Espino de Marotta, among other guests. READ ORIGINAL ARTICLE HERE MiAmbiente Assures that Audit of Copper Mine Progresses Satisfactorily The Ministry of Environment (MiAmbiente) reported that the comprehensive audit of the Cobre Panamá Mine Project is progressing satisfactorily, fully meeting the established goals and timelines. In this regard, the auditing firm SGS Panamá Control Services Inc. delivered the first progress report, corresponding to the initial phase of the audit process being carried out under its supervision. This report, available on MiAmbiente’s website, documents the activities conducted during the first work period, which focused on interinstitutional coordination, document review, detailed technical structuring of the audit, and the definition of the work methodology in accordance with the established Terms of Reference. Likewise, this first report reiterates that all 370 environmental commitments derived from the Category III Environmental Impact Study (EsIA) will be audited. Annex 1 organizes all of these environmental commitments by number, description, institutional responsibility, and location within the Terms of Reference for verification, ensuring traceability, technical control, and transparency throughout the audit process. At this initial stage, no findings or conclusions are issued, as the audit remains in the information gathering, validation, and analysis phase, prior to the start of field verifications and specialized technical evaluations. In this context, the Ministry of Environment reiterates that the Comprehensive Audit of the Cobre Panamá Mine Project is being conducted under international standards, with technical rigor, independence, transparency, and traceability. Partial and final results will likewise be communicated to the public in due course, as the process advances into subsequent phases. MiAmbiente strictly complies with the publication of environmental information in the country, including that related to the Cobre Panamá Mine, in permanent adherence to the Escazú Agreement on transparency in ecological and environmental management. READ ORIGINAL ARTICLE HERE Copa Airlines Resumes Flights to Venezuela, but Only to Maracaibo Copa Airlines announced that it will resume air operations between Panama and Venezuela, but only through La Chinita International Airport in Maracaibo, after completing a test flight and determining that operating to that terminal is safe and reliable. According to the airline, this decision is part of its process of evaluating operational alternatives to maintain connectivity for passengers traveling to and from Venezuela, following the temporary suspension of flights to Caracas. Copa explained that the airport in Maracaibo has approach systems that mitigate operational risks associated with possible navigation signal intermittencies. Operations between Panama and Maracaibo will begin with a daily frequency starting Saturday, December 20, 2025. Flight CM703 will depart from Tocumen International Airport at 12:14 p.m. (local time) and arrive at La Chinita International Airport at 2:58 p.m. The return flight, CM713, will depart Maracaibo at 3:58 p.m. and arrive in Panama at 4:46 p.m. Additionally, the airline reported that it continues to strengthen its flight frequencies between Panama and the city of Cúcuta, Colombia, a border location adjacent
“Emergency Scam”; Fitch Maintains ‘BB+’ Rating; Government Details Use of $29 Million from Copper; Eight Arrested for Cyber Fraud.
Friday, December 12, 2025. Preventing the “Emergency Scam” Targeting Staff Across Panama, and increasingly throughout Latin America, a highly effective fraud scheme continues to exploit the trust and fear of household employees. The pattern is predictable, yet devastatingly successful: a caller urgently informs a nanny or maid that their employer has been arrested, injured, or is in severe legal trouble and needs an immediate cash payment to secure release. The caller demands jewelry, cash, or other valuables and instructs the employee to hand them over to a “lawyer” waiting outside the home. By the time the truth comes to light, the valuables are gone, the criminals have vanished, and both the family and the employee are left shaken. These criminals rely on speed, fear, and confusion. Their goal is to make the employee act before they think, using a believable script and pressure tactics that make the situation feel real. To protect your household, it’s critical to educate and prepare your staff. A well-briefed employee is the single most effective barrier against this type of fraud. How to Prevent This Scam 1. Establish a Household Security Protocol Make sure every employee knows the golden rule:No one acts on an emergency call without first confirming directly with the employer or the employer’s spouse.No exceptions. 2. Create a “Verification Call List” Provide your staff with: 3. Train Staff to Recognize Red Flags Criminals typically: Your staff must understand that pressure equals fraud. 4. Prohibit Any Transfer of Valuables Make it clear—verbally and in writing—that:No employee is ever authorized to hand over cash, jewelry, or documents to anyone without your explicit confirmation. 5. Encourage Calm and Critical Thinking Let them know: 6. Install Security Measures Instructions to Give Your Maid or Nanny You can include these as a printed list in your home: Final Note These scams succeed not because staff are careless, but because criminals are highly trained in psychological manipulation. A prepared household is a protected household. Clear communication, simple rules, and regular reminders will reduce your risk significantly. Brett Mikkelson Director, B.M. Investigations, Inc. – Private Investigations in Panama TOP NEWS and TIDBITS: Assembly Promotes Forum to Improve Panama’s Investment Grade and Attract More Investment The National Assembly’s Economic Committee launched on Thursday a forum-workshop aimed at evaluating the country’s economic situation and mapping out a roadmap to recover and strengthen Panama’s investment grade, a key indicator for attracting foreign investment and reducing unemployment. Deputy Eduardo Gaitán, a member of the committee and promoter of the event, explained that the investment grade “is not an isolated macroeconomic concept,” but a factor that directly impacts Panamanians’ finances. He compared it to the credit rating banks assess when a person applies for a loan. “The better the country’s financial profile, the better interest rates we will all receive—whether for mortgages, car loans, or personal credit,” Gaitán said. He added that the investment level is closely linked to unemployment: “The higher the investment, the lower the unemployment. That is why this issue is so relevant.” A space with more than 100 economic stakeholdersThe forum will include participation from representatives of the World Bank, the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), AMCHAM, independent economists, and various multilateral sectors. Key topics to be discussed include:• The current status of Panama’s economy.• Measures to improve the country’s image with credit rating agencies. The objective is for legislative proposals and public policy recommendations to emerge from this forum to strengthen fiscal stability and transparency. Corruption and lack of transparency continue to affect the countryThe deputy acknowledged that governance and transparency remain the main challenges cited by international rating agencies. He noted that practices such as nepotism, conflicts of interest, and public officials engaging in contracts with the State continue to damage the country’s credibility. “These are practices people have come to see as normal, but they are not. And they directly affect the international perception we aim to improve,” he stated. As an example, he mentioned the recent case of a former deputy and former director of Pandeportes who is facing legal proceedings for contracts with the State without proper authorization. Forum expectationsGaitán emphasized that this is the first time the Economic Committee organizes a forum of this scale with all key national and international economic actors. The goal, he said, is for joint efforts to produce clear policies and concrete measures to strengthen Panama’s economy. “The investment grade affects credit, unemployment, and the daily life of every Panamanian. We cannot treat it as an isolated issue,” he stressed. READ ORIGINAL ARTICLE HERE Small Aircraft that Crashed on the Amador Causeway Was Heading to the Calzada Larga Airfield The Civil Aviation Authority (AAC) reported that the authorized investigative team is already conducting inquiries to determine the causes of the small aircraft crash that occurred Thursday morning on the Amador Causeway. According to AAC Deputy Director Abdel Martínez, the flight plan initially listed four passengers; however, at the time of takeoff only two crew members were on board. They were treated by emergency medical personnel following the incident. The institution indicated that the aircraft’s destination was the Calzada Larga airfield. In the area, units from the Fire Department are carrying out cleanup work and fuel removal, while traffic flow is being regulated to avoid congestion. Authorities are advising drivers to avoid traveling through the area. A small aircraft crashed Thursday morning on the Amador Causeway, resulting in two people sustaining minor injuries. READ ORIGINAL ARTICLE HERE Fitch Maintains Panama’s Rating at ‘BB+’, Below Investment Grade Fitch Ratings confirmed on Wednesday Panama’s sovereign risk rating at ‘BB+’ with a stable outlook, highlighting a combination of macroeconomic strengths and persistent pressures on public finances. Panama remains below investment grade for Fitch, which removed it in March 2024. However, the country still retains that status with the other two major agencies, meaning that it is still generally considered an investment-grade economy. In its report, Fitch noted that the country’s profile continues to be supported by a high GDP per capita, low inflation, and macro-financial stability derived from
El Valle; Copa Airlines Suspends Flights to Venezuela; Comptroller Audits Extraordinary Municipal Funds; Minimum Wage Board Enters Final Phase.
Friday, December 5, 2025. El Valle: Where Rest Becomes Wisdom There is a quiet kind of wisdom in learning to slow down. It’s something we often overlook, especially those of us who live in constant motion, managing businesses, solving problems, carrying responsibilities that seldom sleep. But every human being, no matter how driven, needs a moment to step outside the noise. And sometimes, life gives us the gift of a place that makes slowing down feel natural. For us, that place was El Valle. Tucked inside an ancient volcanic crater, El Valle has a way of easing the tension out of your shoulders the moment you arrive. The air is cooler, the mountains are steadier, and the silence isn’t empty, it’s restorative. Our family trip there became more than just a getaway. It reminded us of a truth that philosophers, doctors, and wise people across generations have all agreed on: rest is not an indulgence; it is a requirement for a healthy, meaningful life. We often think of relaxation as something passive, as if it’s simply the absence of work. But true rest is an activepractice. It is the intentional decision to disconnect from obligations, to silence the internal dialogue that tells us we must always be “on,” and to allow our bodies and minds to reset. Science supports this. When we rest: But beyond the science, there is a philosophical side to rest that resonates more deeply. The Stoics taught that tranquility (ataraxia) is a form of strength. That a person who can quiet his own mind is more powerful than one who conquers cities. Rest, then, is not weakness. It is preparation, a returning to the world with renewed clarity and sharper judgment. In El Valle, we felt that truth firsthand. We savored beautiful meals at Fuego in the Hotel La Compañía and at Las Nubes, where the view alone seems to slow time. We wandered from café to café, enjoying hot chocolates as if they were small celebrations. And sometimes, we simply sat together listening to music, napping, or doing absolutely nothing except being a family with each other, not just near each other. No work talk. No deadlines. Just presence. These moments reminded us that harmony at home is not automatic. It needs space to breathe. It needs silence, laughter, shared meals, and the slow rhythm of time enjoyed intentionally. As we move forward with our busy schedules, it’s worth remembering:Rest is not the opposite of productivity. It is the fuel for it.Relaxation is not the enemy of ambition. It keeps ambition from consuming us.And time with family is not a pause from life, it is life. If El Valle taught us anything, it’s that everyone should step away every now and again. Not to escape the world, but to return to it stronger, calmer, and more aligned with the things that truly matter. Brett Mikkelson Director, B.M. Investigations, Inc. – Private Investigations in Panama TOP NEWS and TIDBITS: New ION Building in the City of Health Will Have an Investment of More Than $95 Million A new building for the National Oncology Institute (ION) will be constructed in the City of Health, with an investment exceeding 95 million dollars, according to the Ministry of Health (MINSA). The project is part of the integration process outlined in the agreement between MINSA and the Social Security Fund (CSS), aimed at optimizing the use of available services in this medical complex and strengthening the quality of care for oncology patients. The entity explained that the project will have an estimated execution period of 18 to 24 months and will feature a 9-story infrastructure designed to expand the country’s capacity for cancer care. MINSA announced the construction of the new ION building. Among the planned services are an outpatient chemotherapy room with 90 chairs, 8 beds for prolonged treatments, a clinical and molecular laboratory specialized in hematology, as well as a 6-story parking facility with 272 spaces. The new ION will also offer 92 outpatient consultation rooms, distributed across more than 15 clinical specialties, within a total construction area of 19,670 square meters. New ION building in the City of Health MINSA also detailed that, in 2024 alone, the National Oncology Institute attended 5,290 first-time patients in Outpatient Consultation. By province, the highest number of cases was recorded in Panama with 2,156 patients, followed by Panama Oeste with 854, and Chiriquí with 629. Regarding gender distribution, 3,224 women and 2,066 men were attended. Of the total number of patients, 71% were insured and 29% uninsured, reflecting the nationwide reach of the public oncology system. READ ORIGINAL ARTICLE HERE Panama Canal Defines Prequalification Requirements for Port Projects and the Gas Pipeline The Panama Canal will evaluate financial strength, prior experience, operational capacity, performance in similar projects, and management of cost overruns as the central criteria to determine which companies may prequalify for the port projects and the gas pipeline. Elements such as the operator’s relationship with the host country and other technical factors established in the bidding documents—scheduled to be published between December and January—will also be considered. “The interest is there, and now what we need is to determine how they can get through the prequalification process—that is, how they can participate and which ones do not qualify for technical or financial reasons,” explained the administrator of the Panama Canal, Ricaurte Vásquez. He added that the entity is compiling all the questions received in order to adjust the contracting concept and align it with what the market can finance. “The Canal cannot issue a contract that nobody understands,” Vásquez stated during a meeting with EditoRed, the Association of Media Editors of the European Union, Latin America, and the Caribbean. The Canal has concluded individual meetings with representatives of companies interested in the gas pipeline and is meeting this week with those interested in the ports. The Panama Canal’s plan includes the construction of the new Corozal and Telfers port terminals, with an estimated investment of 2.6 billion dollars. These projects would increase the country’s transshipment capacity by about
Giving Thanks; Panama to Formalize Mercosur accession; Moody’s Warns about Key Canal Projects; Canal Advances Prequalification for New Terminals and Gas Pipeline.
Friday, November 28, 2025. Giving Thanks, Always With Thanksgiving now in the rearview, we’re reminded that gratitude is not meant to be confined to a holiday, it is meant to be lived every day as a discipline of the mind. The Stoics taught that the quality of our lives depends less on what happens around us and more on the lens through which we choose to interpret those events. Gratitude sharpens that lens. It roots us in the present moment and reveals value in places we often overlook. The holiday gives us a pause, a chance to acknowledge blessings that are easy to ignore in the rush of our daily responsibilities. But the deepest form of appreciation isn’t found around a dinner table; it rises quietly in the small, unremarkable moments we tend to dismiss: the morning light through a window, a simple meal shared, a conversation that brings clarity, the presence of those who stand with us through both triumph and hardship. Marcus Aurelius reminded himself each morning that he would meet challenges, frustrations, and difficult people, yet still be grateful, because each difficulty was an opportunity to practice virtue. Seneca wrote that no man becomes wise by accident; wisdom is shaped by what we choose to notice and how we choose to respond. Gratitude, practiced daily, is one of the most powerful responses available to us. It turns ordinary days into meaningful ones. It teaches us resilience by shifting our focus from what is missing to what remains. And in a world that moves fast, often too fast, gratitude is a way of slowing the internal noise. It aligns us with what truly matters, cutting through distraction and excess. It strengthens our inner foundation, allowing us to lead with calmness instead of urgency, awareness instead of impulse, and purpose instead of reaction. As we move through the season ahead, it’s worth remembering that the most important parts of life rarely come with ceremony. They reveal themselves in moments so quiet they’re easy to miss. When we train our minds to seek them out, we not only become more centered, we become more present for the people who depend on us, more grounded in our work, and more capable of meeting each day with clarity and strength. Thanksgiving may be behind us, but its lesson remains: gratitude isn’t an event. It’s a way of living. Brett Mikkelson Director, B.M. Investigations, Inc. – Private Investigations in Panama TOP NEWS and TIDBITS: Panama Canal Prepares Prequalification for New Port Terminals and Advances in Gas Pipeline Process Panama Canal Administrator Ricaurte Vásquez indicated that the entity “wants to carry out the prequalification at the end of December, or possibly in January,” for the new port terminals the Canal administration plans to develop. The details known so far indicate that the project includes the development of two terminals in Corozal and Telfers, with a combined capacity of nearly 5 million TEUs per year and an estimated investment of US$2.6 billion. The award is expected by the end of 2026, with operations beginning in early 2029, and only companies that prequalify will be able to continue in the process. “As fast as that. This window of opportunity will not be open for long,” he warned during his presentation at the monthly luncheon of the Panamanian Association of Business Executives (APEDE). The objective is to expand transshipment capacity, strengthen Panama’s position as an intermodal hub, and respond to the reality that the interoceanic area is currently operating at its limit. The proposal also incorporates specialized infrastructure criteria and progressive environmental standards. “We need to begin a process of individual conversations… we will begin the individual conversations next week (Monday),” he noted. The Canal held the first meeting of the process on October 27, during which port operators and shipping lines were invited to provide feedback on the initiative. Nineteen companies with experience in container port operations and liner shipping participated. Among them were APM Terminals, Cosco Shipping Ports, CMA Terminals, DP World, Hanseatic Global Terminals, MOL, PSA International, SSA Marine–Grupo Carrix, and Terminal Investment Limited; as well as representatives from CMA CGM, ONE, Evergreen, Hapag Lloyd, HMM, Maersk Line, MSC, OOCL, COSCO, Yang Ming, Port of Houston, and ZIM. The Canal has capacity“In fact, the Panama Canal has the capacity for up to four terminals: two on the east bank—Corozal and Telfer—and two on the west bank, including Sherman and Velásquez,” the administrator explained. When asked about the participation of Chinese companies, the administrator reminded that the legal framework requires the process to remain open. “The principle is that, under the neutrality treaty, we must be open to the participation of all interested parties,” he said when questioned about whether companies from that country would be included. He explained that starting next week, they will hold meetings with all companies that expressed interest during the presentation held in October. The administrator reiterated that all assets developed under this scheme will be owned by the Panama Canal and therefore protected by the neutrality treaty. Gas Pipeline Regarding the gas pipeline, Vásquez explained that they are currently in a round of meetings with interested companies. “At this moment, we are holding virtual meetings with interested parties. Remember that 45 companies attended the presentation held in Panama on September 18. We had in-person meetings in Houston last week, and the rest of the meetings will be held via teleconference from Monday through Thursday,” he detailed. He added that these meetings “should conclude this week” concerning the gas pipeline. Regarding the current level of interest, he noted that “there are 17 entities that are in discussions with us in this first stage,” during which information is analyzed, along with possible volumes and long-term contracts needed to support financing. Vásquez made it clear that the Canal will seek to limit its financial risk in this project. “In this type of project, the Panama Canal will not risk its assets. It will be financed; we will make a capital contribution,