Panama steps on the gas: economy grows 4.33% in 2025

Panama's economy is showing strong growth in 2025. The financial intermediation sector rose due to more deposits and credits, while construction was driven by civil works and higher demand for pre-mixed concrete and gray cement. The industry grew due to an increase in the slaughter of swine and cattle, as well as beer production. Agriculture also contributed, especially with pineapple destined for export. The Monthly Index of Economic Activity (IMAE) accumulated a growth of 4.33%, while the annual rate in December was 4.03%, according to official data from the National Institute of Statistics and Census (INEC). Although December's figure is lower than the 6% recorded in the same month last year, the pace remains stable. The IMAE is a gauge that measures production movement in the country and anticipates the behavior of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), which, according to official projections, would be around 4% this year. Among the engines that drove the economy are the transport, storage, and communications sectors. The Panama Canal contributed with its toll revenues and movement of net tons, in addition to the dynamism of air transport and TEU containers in ports. Commerce also showed positive signals, both wholesale and retail.