The outgoing president of the Chamber of Commerce, Industries, and Agriculture of Panama, Juan Arias, stated that the business sector will continue to insist on the need for an educational reform, considering that this topic was a common point in all regions of the country during his term.
“In every conversation we held in these two years—without exception—there was a common point: education,” expressed Arias.
Arias highlighted that Panama currently has about 900,000 students in the educational system, so he warned about the urgency of improving their training.
“If we do not prepare them well, everything else falls short,” he affirmed, emphasizing the importance of promoting structural changes in the educational system.
The business leader indicated that the Chamber of Commerce will continue to actively participate in this issue, promoting dialogue spaces and contributing proposals.
“We will continue to be present there, bringing perspectives for an educational reform in favor of the future of Panamanians,” he stated in his farewell message.
In his management report, Arias reviewed the main topics addressed during his presidency and reiterated the private sector's commitment to the country's development.
He also mentioned commercial missions to Brazil, Korea, and Japan as part of the country's internationalization strategy.
“I am leaving peacefully, with the Panama shirt well on... Because in the end, there is something that does not change: the homeland always, always, comes first,” concluded Arias as he said goodbye to the presidency of the guild that will now be led by Aurelio Barría Pino.
“Panama has it all: location, talent, and people who do not give up. What we need is to continue doing the right thing,” he highlighted.
Arias highlighted the growth and reach of the business guild, which added 480 new members to exceed 1,800 companies from 15 economic sectors.
In addition, he highlighted the signing of about thirty cooperation agreements with national and international chambers and institutions, as well as the results of the 2026 fairs, which brought together more than 800 companies from more than 30 countries, generated more than 19,000 business contacts and opportunities valued at more than 165 million dollars.
