Representatives from the institutions that make up the Logistical Cabinet of the National Government held their first ordinary meeting in the Paz Hall of the Presidency of the Republic. The objective of the Logistical Cabinet is to consolidate and optimize the logistics sector of Panama by leveraging its strategic position, port infrastructure, and the Panama Canal. It also aims to attract foreign investment, improve positioning in international trade, and promote economic development.
The coordinating entity of the Logistical Cabinet is the Office of Economic Affairs and Competitiveness of the Presidency of the Republic, led by Kristelle Getzler. In the coming months, they will review the national logistics strategy for Panama 2030 to identify projects that enhance the competitiveness and income of the country. The next meeting is scheduled for February 14, 2025.
According to a report from the Georgia Tech Panama logistics research center, the maritime-logistics conglomerate contributes 31% to Panama's GDP, equivalent to 21.21 billion balboas, and generates 109,406 direct jobs. Additionally, its impact on total employment in the economy is approximately 30%.
The first session included participation from the Customs Authority, Tocumen S.A., the Authority of Transit and Land Transport, the Railroad Secretariat, the National Secretariat of Science and Technology (Senacyt), and the Panama Logistics Business Council. During the meeting, details were presented on Panama's logistics situation at a global level, the Technological Portal for Foreign Trade and Logistics (PORTCEL), and a diagnostic of the Customs systems.
The Minister of the Presidency, Juan Carlos Orillac, presided over the session, which aimed to strengthen competitiveness and develop human resources. The Logistical Cabinet includes the Ministries of the Presidency, Economy and Finance, Trade and Industries, Public Works, and Canal Affairs.
