The interest in strengthening trade and logistics ties between Panama and India led Panamanian business leaders to meet with the Indian ambassador to the country, Sumit Seth, during the Panama–India 2026 Business Logistics Encounter. Organized by the Panamanian Association of Business Executives (APEDE) alongside the Embassy of India, private sector representatives analyzed potential investment, trade exchange, and cooperation opportunities in areas such as technology, services, and cargo transport. The event also addressed Panama's role in international trade, driven by its strategic location and infrastructure like the Panama Canal, ports, and air connectivity linking the country to various markets. APEDE's president, Giulia De Sanctis, explained that the logistics sector holds significant weight in Panama's economy, representing nearly 12% of GDP and generating thousands of direct and indirect jobs. She also noted that the relationship with India opens a window of opportunities due to the country's economic growth and increasing presence in sectors like technology, manufacturing, and innovation. In turn, Ambassador Sumit Seth highlighted that Panama's strategic position as a logistics and financial hub in the region makes it a key node for the movement of goods and services within global trade. The diplomat also recalled that India is projected to be one of the world's largest economies in the coming years, with a market exceeding 1.4 billion people and an economy maintaining a steady growth rate. According to APEDE, these encounters aim to strengthen business diplomacy and create dialogue spaces to expand business opportunities between the two nations.
