The Panamanian Hotel Association (APATEL) officially presented its new strategic reform agenda aimed at boosting the competitiveness and sustainability of the hotel sector. This initiative seeks to recognize the operational seasonality of the industry, facilitating the formalization of employment and expanding the base of contributors to the social security system. During the inauguration of the Board of Directors for the 2026 period, the new president of the guild, Víctor Concepción Perén, reaffirmed the organization's commitment to generating formal employment and institutional modernization. The new APATEL administration will base its management on transparency and public-private articulation. One of the pillars of the new agenda is the promotion of a special labor regime for the hotel sector. To achieve these goals, the association will reinforce its alliances with the Panamanian Association of Business Executives (APEDE), the Panama Tourism Authority (ATP), and PROMTUR, focusing on strengthening air connectivity and MICE tourism. In the area of environmental responsibility, APATEL announced its adherence to the World Ethical Code for Tourism of ONU Tourism. According to the directive, the return of important groups such as Empresas Bern and the Hyatt Regency Hotel to the guild confirms the business community's confidence in this renewed vision that seeks to consolidate tourism as a national economic engine. The internal reform includes updating the code of ethics, reviewing statutes, and digitizing processes to improve decision-making and market intelligence.
