Panama and Brazil strengthen economic ties ahead of the International Economic Forum 2026

The Brazil-Panama Dialogue: Building Bridges to the International Economic Forum of Latin America and the Caribbean 2026, organized by CAF, Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean, in Brasilia, brought together prominent Panamanian and Brazilian delegations to coordinate efforts in preparation for the second edition of the International Economic Forum, to be held on January 28-29, 2026 in Panama. The event will bring together governments, the private sector and civil society to discuss ways of integration and sustainable productive transformation for Latin America and the Caribbean.

Panama's president, José Raúl Mulino, highlighted that the visit to Brasilia was an opportunity to deepen bilateral cooperation. "Panama offers Brazil a unique platform of services, especially in the logistics sector, functioning as a gateway for the distribution of value-added products throughout the region. Brazilian companies find in Panama a privileged space to expand their operations globally, with facilitated access to value chains in the Caribbean, Central America and the Andean North," said the Panamanian president.

According to Mulino, the relationship between Brazil and Panama symbolizes the potential of the entire region. "When two nations work together with a common purpose, it is possible to overcome challenges, seize opportunities and promote true integration. The future of Latin America depends on our ability to act together, transforming cooperation into shared progress," he concluded.

CAF's executive president, Sergio Díaz-Granados, said that strengthening the alliance between the two countries can boost regional integration, generate new development opportunities for other countries in the region, accelerate the energy transition, stimulate the digitalization of services and strengthen regional productive chains, contributing to competitiveness and the reduction of inequalities.

"Panama consolidated itself as a logistics and financial platform with global reach, connecting Brazil with the Caribbean, Mesoamerica and the Andean North. For its part, Brazil is projected as a power in strategic sectors, such as value agribusiness, renewable energy, electric mobility, technology and digital services. This is a great opportunity to multiply the capacity to attract investment, expand markets and generate innovative solutions that promote inclusive development. Brazil and Panama can be protagonists of a more dynamic and sustainable integration in our region," said Diaz-Granados.

During the event, CAF and CNI signed an agreement to promote productive modernization, Industry 4.0, decarbonization, energy efficiency, circular economy, internationalization of Brazilian companies and regional integration. Cooperation will be carried out through different modalities, such as the exchange of information. The partnership also envisages joint efforts to position Brazilian industry in multilateral agendas, reinforcing its role as a reference in competitiveness, sustainability and innovation.