Panamanian Authorities Conduct Labor Law Compliance Checks in Restaurants

Officials reiterated to restaurant managers that Article 17 of the Labor Code establishes that for every ten national workers, only one foreign worker may be hired, a fundamental provision for the protection of local employment and respect for the principle of legality. In light of these findings, the Judicial Secretariat of Mitradel issued four provisions for non-compliance with labor regulations. This action is aimed at verifying compliance with current labor legislation and preserving an orderly and fair labor market. During the operation, inspectors identified 14 foreigners (11 women and 3 men), all from South America, working without the required work permit, in violation of current regulations. Mitradel reiterated that these operations will continue to be carried out permanently throughout the country, as part of the commitment of the National Government, led by President José Raúl Mulino and Minister of Labor, Jackeline Muñoz de Cedeño, to protect the local workforce, fair competition, and the generation of decent, legal, and sustainable employment for all. The National Migration Service (SNM) and inspectors from the Ministry of Labor and Labor Development (Mitradel) conducted a nocturnal operation in restaurants located in Bella Vista, Albrook, and the Casco Antiguo.