Presence of U.S. and Multinational Investors in Panamá

 

Multinational CORPORATIONS

U.S. investment is a cornerstone of both SEM and AEEPP regimes and demonstrates strong international confidence in Panama’s legal stability and pro-business environment.

  • Over 20% of SEM-licensed companies are headquartered in the United States

  • Major U.S. corporations including Dell, Caterpillar, 3M, and Procter & Gamble operate regional headquarters in Panama

  • In the Panama Pacific Area, U.S. companies represent approximately 30% of registered entities

Panama Savings Fund (FAP)

  • Purpose and Mandate: The Panama Savings Fund (Fondo de Ahorro de Panamá), established in 2012, serves as a long-term national savings mechanism during national emergencies or economic regressions.

  • Funding Sources: Initial funding came from proceeds of privatization of state-owned enterprises, including INTEL and IRHE. Currently, one of the main funding sources is surplus transfers from the Panama Canal Authority when canal surpluses exceed a set percentage of GDP. The fund also receives income from investment returns.

  • Investment Strategy: The investment portfolio is diversified and includes global fixed income, short-term liquid assets, corporate equities, and real estate. However, as of the second quarter of 2025, 88% of its investments were in the United States

  • Current Asset Size: As of end-2025, FAP assets total approximately USD 1.7 billion. Following conversion of government promissory notes into negotiable government bonds, total assets rose to approximately USD 3 billion.