Multi-Dimensional Review of Panama
Volume 1: Initial Assessment
Since the beginning of the 21st century, Panama has exhibited remarkable economic growth and has reduced the gap in terms of income per capita with high-income countries. Social progress has also been achieved, mainly through the reduction of poverty and advances in some well-being dimensions. However, challenges remain with regard to overcoming the so-called middle-income trap and consolidating the middle-class. This first volume of the Multi-dimensional Country Review of Panama identifies the main barriers to further inclusive development. It highlights that promoting equitable, inclusive and sustainable economic growth and improving the well-being of all citizens should be at the core of Panama’s development strategies.
Financing for Panama's development agenda
OECD Development Centre
This chapter outlines the financing flows available for Panama over recent years to support development activities by the public and private sectors. The focus throughout is on the resources that are or could be available for development activities, rather than how those financing flows have been used. The chapter examines public finances and the scope to increase the resources available for the public sector, focusing on the potential to improve the performance of Panama’s tax system. The chapter also assesses the sustainability of public debt and potential liabilities. It then examines the availability of resources that could support development activity by private sector firms, through foreign direct investment and financing from the domestic financial system. Finally, it notes the evolving role of remittance flows to support consumption possibilities in Panama.