Panama’s continued economic development has been buoyed by it’s status as the fastest growing tourism market in South America, whilst the country’s banking sector is the second largest on the planet. The expansion of the Panama Canal and its major Colón Free Trade Zone have also significantly improved Panama’s financial outlook.

In spite of the worldwide economic crisis Panama’s economy has seen steady growth since 2005 with low inflation, low unemployment, and constant GDP growth. Panama’s consistent growth and economic stability far surpasses the United States in relative GDP terms.

The absence of currency exchange controls plays a significant role in the countries popularity as an investment destination. Funds can flow freely in and out of Panama, negating any currency risks, which has proved an unstable aspect of emerging economies within the Americas in the last decade. Panama also offer’s significant benefits and tax breaks in area’s such as property and land development, imported produce & tourism.

Panama’s politically sound status is confirmed by the Political Risk Services (PRS) who have placed Panama in the top three countries of its hemisphere in terms of best risk-investment qualifications. Moody’s and Standard & Poors have both granted high ranking to Panamanian financial institutions. Whilst The International Monetary Fund (IMF) rates Panama as the fastest-growing economy in Latin America.

Panama’s Civil Code, Constitution, and its Foreign Investments Act all provide assurance that foreigners have equal rights as Panamanians when it comes to property ownership, investments, and commerce.