emirates7 - IFZA, recognized as one of the world’s most dynamic and rapidly growing Free Zone communities, has announced the launch of IFZA Panama, marking a significant step in its international expansion plans.
The new Free Zone in Panama City represents IFZA’s first physical presence in Latin America and reinforces its mission to promote global entrepreneurship and interconnected business networks.
In an important development, the Government of Panama has officially granted IFZA a licence to operate a Free Zone in the country. This will allow IFZA to bring its established, investor-friendly, growth-oriented model to the Latin American market.
Often called the “hub of the Americas,” Panama shares many similarities with Dubai. It is a vibrant trade and financial centre, home to more than 60 local, regional, and international banks. Its strategic location, bridging North and South America, along with the Panama Canal and well-connected air transport network, makes it an ideal base for nearshoring strategies and international business expansion.
“Our move into Panama is a natural progression of IFZA’s global growth strategy,” said Martin G. Pedersen, Chairman of IFZA. “Panama’s strategic location, strong banking system, modern infrastructure, dollarized economy, and business-friendly regulations make it a perfect partner for our next phase. We are committed to working closely with the Panamanian government and local stakeholders to generate shared economic value.”
Highlighting its dedication to global compliance standards, Panama was removed from the FATF grey list in 2023 and from the EU’s list of high-risk countries in 2024, further enhancing its attractiveness to international investors.
The Free Zone will function as a mixed-use hub catering to a wide range of sectors, including professional services, technology, logistics, trading, software, and industrial operations.
“Business has the unique ability to connect people, cross borders, and break down barriers,” said Jochen Knecht, CEO of IFZA. “Through IFZA Panama, our aim is not just to open a Free Zone, but to a bridge between Latin America and the UAE, helping businesses expand with confidence and purpose.”
With a track record of supporting over 60,000 businesses worldwide and maintaining a presence and partnerships in more than 50 countries, IFZA is well-positioned to attract significant foreign direct investment to Panama.
Companies operating within IFZA Panama Free Zone will enjoy substantial fiscal benefits, including exemptions from corporate income tax, import duties, and VAT, establishing it as a strong base for global trade and growth.
Additionally, businesses in the Free Zone will have access to a comprehensive range of services, including company formation and incorporation, visa and immigration assistance (including family sponsorship), office and workspace solutions, corporate banking support, accounting and tax advisory services, and relocation guidance covering real estate, schools, and lifestyle needs.
The Free Zone will align with Panama’s national economic objectives, contribute to job creation, and strengthen the country’s position as a competitive, innovation-driven hub in the region.
Beyond establishing a physical presence, IFZA aims to identify high-potential opportunities across Latin America, adapting its Free Zone model to reduce entry barriers, ensure regulatory compliance, and accelerate business growth. At the same time, the initiative will provide Latin American companies with opportunities to access markets in the UAE and the wider Middle East, including Africa, India, and Pakistan.
The new Free Zone in Panama City represents IFZA’s first physical presence in Latin America and reinforces its mission to promote global entrepreneurship and interconnected business networks.
In an important development, the Government of Panama has officially granted IFZA a licence to operate a Free Zone in the country. This will allow IFZA to bring its established, investor-friendly, growth-oriented model to the Latin American market.
Often called the “hub of the Americas,” Panama shares many similarities with Dubai. It is a vibrant trade and financial centre, home to more than 60 local, regional, and international banks. Its strategic location, bridging North and South America, along with the Panama Canal and well-connected air transport network, makes it an ideal base for nearshoring strategies and international business expansion.
“Our move into Panama is a natural progression of IFZA’s global growth strategy,” said Martin G. Pedersen, Chairman of IFZA. “Panama’s strategic location, strong banking system, modern infrastructure, dollarized economy, and business-friendly regulations make it a perfect partner for our next phase. We are committed to working closely with the Panamanian government and local stakeholders to generate shared economic value.”
Highlighting its dedication to global compliance standards, Panama was removed from the FATF grey list in 2023 and from the EU’s list of high-risk countries in 2024, further enhancing its attractiveness to international investors.
The Free Zone will function as a mixed-use hub catering to a wide range of sectors, including professional services, technology, logistics, trading, software, and industrial operations.
“Business has the unique ability to connect people, cross borders, and break down barriers,” said Jochen Knecht, CEO of IFZA. “Through IFZA Panama, our aim is not just to open a Free Zone, but to a bridge between Latin America and the UAE, helping businesses expand with confidence and purpose.”
With a track record of supporting over 60,000 businesses worldwide and maintaining a presence and partnerships in more than 50 countries, IFZA is well-positioned to attract significant foreign direct investment to Panama.
Companies operating within IFZA Panama Free Zone will enjoy substantial fiscal benefits, including exemptions from corporate income tax, import duties, and VAT, establishing it as a strong base for global trade and growth.
Additionally, businesses in the Free Zone will have access to a comprehensive range of services, including company formation and incorporation, visa and immigration assistance (including family sponsorship), office and workspace solutions, corporate banking support, accounting and tax advisory services, and relocation guidance covering real estate, schools, and lifestyle needs.
The Free Zone will align with Panama’s national economic objectives, contribute to job creation, and strengthen the country’s position as a competitive, innovation-driven hub in the region.
Beyond establishing a physical presence, IFZA aims to identify high-potential opportunities across Latin America, adapting its Free Zone model to reduce entry barriers, ensure regulatory compliance, and accelerate business growth. At the same time, the initiative will provide Latin American companies with opportunities to access markets in the UAE and the wider Middle East, including Africa, India, and Pakistan.