Panama expects that 2026 will be a year of job growth thanks to an $11.2 billion allocation in the general state budget. President, ministers, and experts forecast a rebound in consumption and a surge of investment.
President José Raúl Mulino underscored that 2026 will see an increase in investments that will create thousands of jobs. "I hope 2026 will be different, because there is a lot of unemployment," he said.
Labor consultant René Quevedo added that 2026 should be a year of recovery, with positive trends such as increased consumption and private investment consolidated, key drivers for job creation.
The Ministry of Public Works, led by José Luis Andrade, announced that in 2026 the MOP will spearhead an "employment revolution" with the launch of 35 nationwide projects from January to March.
Minister of Labor Jackeline Muñoz noted that next year will be more favorable for job creation. She said that in the third quarter of 2025, consumption rose by $100 million per month compared with the first half of the year.
Unemployment is expected to fall to single digits by 2026, and all these measures will continue to create new jobs. The current unemployment figure stands at 202 609 people.
"We are pushing for private enterprise, encouraging foreign investment, and seeking investment in key projects such as the port, the gas pipeline, and the route around the canal," Muñoz added.
Moreover, the number of permanent contracts is growing, which, according to the minister, signals confidence in the labor market. Projects include infrastructure works, water supply, schools, and healthcare.
