Panama showed moderately positive rates in both local retail and wholesale trade, as well as in new car registrations and fuel sales. Financial intermediation maintained an upward trajectory, supported by the growth of deposits and credits, as well as the dynamism of the insurance sector. This behavior generated a higher demand for basic inputs, which favored the activity of mines and quarries. The main sectors included transport, storage, and communications; construction; commerce; financial intermediation; community and recreational activities; and hotels and restaurants. The transport, storage, and communications sector maintained its growth, driven mainly by the Panama Canal, reflected in toll revenues and in the net tons transported by vessels. This performance was added to by air transport and the movement of TEU containers through the National Port System. Construction registered an increase supported by buildings, additions, and repairs, measured through municipal permits, although with a lag. In the agricultural sector, the cultivation of bananas for export showed adverse results, as did the fishing activity, affected by the reduction in the export of fish and fillets, both refrigerated and frozen. "In the latter period, personal accident, fire, and multi-risk branches, individual and collective life, health, automobiles, and other transports stood out," the report states. In contrast, some activities showed unfavorable performances.
