Investing in Panama
In the first half of 2024, Panama attracted USD 1.61 billion in foreign direct investment (FDI), which represents an increase of 23% compared to the same period in 2023
Realizado en colaboración con:
"Panama is characterized by its sustained economic growth, commitment to sustainability and world-class infrastructure, making it an attractive destination for investors. We hope that 'Investing in Panama' will prove to be an essential tool to highlight the vast investment opportunities in the tourism sector of such a dynamic country."
Zurab Pololikashvili,
UN Tourism Secretary-General
"Panama is positioned as a key destination for investments in a context where sustainability and innovation are fundamental. Its biodiversity, strong legal framework and commitment to sustainable development make the country attractive to investors looking for positive impact and long-term growth."
Natalia Bayona,
Executive Director, UN Tourism
TOURISM DOING BUSINESS INVESTING IN PANAMA
Panama is an attractive option for investors in the tourism sector due to its solid economic growth and financial stability.
Panama's world-class infrastructure, including Tocumen International Airport and the Panama Canal, positions it as the main connectivity hub in the Americas, facilitating access to key tourist destinations. In addition, in 2023, Panama attracted 2.518 million visitors, generating receipts of USD 5.432 billion, which represents 20% growth compared to 2019.
In addition, as of September 2024, the country has experienced 16% growth in international arrivals compared to 2019 levels, reaffirming its position as a dynamic and recovering destination.
ECONOMIC OUTLOOK
With a GDP increase of 10.8% in 2022 and 7.3% in 2023, Panama is positioned as the second fastest growing economy in the region. This economic performance is underpinned by a robust financial system, with more than 90 banks and assets exceeding USD 131.33 billion.
The stability of its dollarized economy, along with legal protections for investments and positive credit ratings, reinforce its attractiveness to investors.
INVESTMENT OVERVIEW
In the first half of 2024, Panama attracted USD 1.61 billion in foreign direct investment (FDI), which represents an increase of 23% compared to the same period in 2023. In the field of tourism, Panama has established itself as the Central American country with the second-largest number of greenfield FDI projects between 2018 and 2023, generating more than 13,800 jobs and representing 20.1% of announcements in the region.
Between 2018 and 2023, companies in Panama announced 30 tourism investment projects, valued at USD 1.746 billion, collectively constituting the fourth biggest investor in Latin America and the Caribbean.
VALUE PROPOSITION
Panama offers a unique value proposition for tourism investors. Its national park system and the protection of more than 54% of its territory underline its commitment to sustainability, being one of only three carbon-negative countries in the world.
The "30x30" programme seeks to protect at least 30% of Panama’s ocean and land by 2030. In addition, the country is known for its more than 1,000 islands with paradise-like beaches and protected coral reefs.
TAX INCENTIVES
Panama provides attractive tax incentives for tourism activities, such as exemptions of up to 15 years in income tax for approved projects and the elimination of import taxes for tourism inputs. These policies foster a favourable environment for new investments.
INFRASTRUCTURE AND CONNECTIVITY
The country distinguishes itself as the main connectivity hub in the Americas. Tocumen International Airport is positioned as one of the best in international air connectivity, while the Panama Canal handles 6% of global trade. Investments in tourism infrastructure, including airport expansion and new cruise terminals, further reinforce this connectivity.
With a robust economic environment, a commitment to sustainability, and advanced infrastructure, Panama presents itself as an ideal destination for investments seeking high growth and return potential.