Panama
Latin America to miss more than three-quarters of 2030 sustainability targets, ECLAC says
The region's progress on UN goals is hampered by weak institutions and debt burden, warns UN commission in a new report.
Latin America escapes full wrath of Trump's tariffs, as few nations bear brunt
Most regional economies hit with baseline 10% rate while Venezuela, Nicaragua and Guyana face steeper levies.
Beijing blocks BlackRock's Panama port deal amid US-China tensions
The proposed sale of two key Panamanian ports by Hong Kong-based CK Hutchison to a consortium led by BlackRock has hit a roadblock, as China exerts pressure to halt the deal.
Panama revokes 128 ship registrations in crackdown on Russia and Iran’s shadow fleet carrying oil
Panama has intensified its crackdown on sanctioned vessels by revoking the registration of 128 ships, a move primarily targeting the "shadow fleet" facilitating oil exports from Russia and Iran.
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IMF: How Artificial Intelligence can boost productivity in Latin America
Latin America and the Caribbean has long been a region with one of the most informal labour markets. A large part of the workforce is outside of the formal economy, leaving many people without access to benefits and protections.
US escalates pressure on Panama over Canal control
The US is reportedly intensifying diplomatic and military manoeuvres to challenge Panama's sovereignty over the Panama Canal, with Washington drafting contingency plans that range from increased military cooperation to potential invasion.
Trump's migration clampdown endangers remittances lifeline to Central America
Trump's crackdown threatens vital remittances to Central America, where money sent by migrants makes up to 27% of GDP. The region received $160.9bn in 2024, but these crucial flows now face risk as families depend on them for survival.
EU eyes “strategic autonomy” partnership with Latin America amid deepening rift with US
The European Union is seeking to deepen its relationship with Latin America and the Caribbean, framing the partnership as one built on "strategic autonomy" rather than as a counterbalance to China's growing influence in the region.
US deportation of asylum seekers to Panama condemned by Iran
The United States has deported 119 asylum seekers of various nationalities to Panama, including Iranian nationals who claim they were transferred without notice or deportation documentation.
Uruguay leads Americas in anti-corruption rankings as regional standards slip
Uruguay has emerged as a beacon of transparency in the Americas, securing the top position in Transparency International's latest Corruption Perceptions Index (CPI) with a score of 76 points – its highest since 2012.
Trump’s USAID retreat from Latin America opens door to Chinese influence
The Trump administration's sweeping plans to axe USAID are poised to deliver a significant blow to humanitarian and development programmes across Latin America, paving the way for Beijing's increased activity.
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COMMENT: Trump's Latin America gambit pays off, but at what cost?
Donald Trump’s return to the presidency has reignited tensions between the United States and Latin America. However, recent events have allowed Trump to secure his first wins through an aggressive, transactional foreign policy.
Panama rebuffs US claim of free canal transit and cuts China ties
Panama has strongly rejected US claims that Washington secured free passage for government vessels through the Panama Canal, while withdrawing from China's Belt and Road Initiative.
US Secretary Rubio warns Panama over Chinese influence at canal amid regional tour
US Secretary of State Rubio delivered a stark warning to Panama's president on February 2 that Washington would "take measures necessary" if the Central American nation failed to curtail what the US perceives as China's growing influence.
“Latin American Davos” kicks off in Panama as region battles growth slump
Panama is hosting what organisers touted as the region's answer to Davos, as political and business leaders gather to tackle Latin America's persistent economic challenges amid growing concerns over rising poverty and middle-class stagnation.
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Climate crisis threatens Latin America's fight against hunger, UN report says
Latin America and the Caribbean face mounting risks to food security as climate change intensifies, with the region now second only to Asia in its exposure to extreme weather events, according to a joint report by UN agencies.
Mexico and Central America face pressure over US deportation push
Donald Trump's administration has launched what it calls "the largest massive deportation operation in history", dismantling key migration programmes and triggering diplomatic tensions across Latin America.
COMMENT: Is Latin America prepared for Trump 2.0?
Donald Trump’s return to the White House, heralded by his inaugural address and subsequent executive orders, has sent shockwaves across the world and Latin America, particularly in Mexico and Panama.
Trump's return to White House draws polarised Latin American response
Latin America has split over Donald Trump's White House return, with a handful of leaders rushing to embrace the new president while others eye his protectionist agenda with alarm.
Trump vows to “take back” Panama Canal in inauguration speech
Donald Trump used his inauguration address on January 20 to double down on his assertion that the United States would "take back" the Panama Canal, claiming that China had gained control of the strategic waterway.