The Chamber of Commerce, Industries and Agriculture of Panama (CCIAP) stated that the Latin America and Caribbean International Economic Forum 2026 had an impact on the daily economy and on how Panama once again presented itself to other countries. At the regional level, the forum served to reposition Panama as a hub for dialogue and negotiation. It was noted that the countries of the region need to improve coordination, prioritize actions, and collectively address global changes. Seven presidents and heads of state attended, along with prominent regional figures such as Juan Manuel Santos, Iván Duque, Laura Chinchilla, and Eduardo Frei, as well as ministers, business leaders, and representatives from over 25 countries. The Chamber of Commerce, Industries and Agriculture of Panama highlighted that nearly 9,000 visitors boosted activity in hotels, restaurants, transportation, and other services. The arrival of delegations from Africa, Asia, Europe, and the Middle East, along with organizations like the UN, OAS, OECD, and ECLAC, and the presence of more than 30 multinational companies made one thing clear: Panama is no longer just a transit point; it is also a meeting point. "It became clear that Panama, when organized, can deliver," the organization concluded. For the Chamber, Panama's selection as host country was the result of years of commitment, logistical capacity, and hard-earned trust. During the forum, the Chamber hosted over 15 international delegations, including ministers, deputy ministers, and business leaders. "We were where we needed to be, opening doors and creating contacts," the business association stated. One of the key moments described by the CCIAP was the visit to its headquarters by Chile's president-elect, José Antonio Kast, accompanied by six cabinet ministers. The association also highlighted the presence of the National Government, led by President José Raúl Mulino, with ministers and deputy ministers attending the forum. The Chamber considered this support a demonstration that the country is moving in the same direction. That meeting concluded with the signing of a Cooperation Agreement with the Confederation of Production and Commerce, focused on facilitating business and connecting companies from both countries. For the CCIAP, the challenge now is to convert visibility into investment, meetings into jobs, and agreements into real development. That, they said, is a direct impact. People coming and going, real spending, and work for many who live day to day. This is not just rhetoric, but a genuine necessity.
