Panama

At a COA book launch, panelists shared scientific, political, and historical insights into the Panama Canal’s construction. Matthew Parker, author of Panama Fever: The Epic Story of One of the Greatest Human Achievements of All Time provided context for the discussion through his historical overview beginning with the colonial era.

Speaking at our first Latin American Cities Conference in Panama City, AS/COA President and CEO Susan Segal’s opening remarks (en español) highlighted Panama's increasingly important role in the global economy

At AS/COA's first Latin American Cities Conference in Panama City, speakers and panelists—who included the president and vice president—discussed the future of Panama in the global economy; the growing economic relationship between Panama and the United States; and the role of infrastructure, technology and competitiveness in Panama’s economy.

COA's Director of Government Relations Brian Wanko writes that Congress has the opportunity to make a lasting impact on Latin America's prosperity and development by supporting free-trade agreements with Panama, Peru, and Colombia.

Congress has begun consideration of the U.S.-Peru Trade Promotion Agreement, and a decision on its approval is expected by the end of October. A new congressional update takes a look at action on the deal, possibilities for similar agreements with Panama and Colombia, and a U.S. proposal for a new hemispheric aid initiative.

Michael Bomba, a PhD from the University of Texas at Austin, sees the estimated $5.2 billion canal improvement project as a natural response to significant developments in maritime trade over the past two decades. A third set of locks will allow for increased ship traffic along this strategic waterway.

Topics in this issue: U.S. Free-Trade Agreements with Colombia, Peru and Panama
• Market access
• Services and investment
• Labor
• Export growth