IFZA Launches New Free Zone in Panama, Expands Global Footprint

Panama City, August 18, 2025 – IFZA, one of the world’s fastest-growing Free Zone communities, has announced the launch of IFZA Panama, marking its first physical presence in Latin America and reinforcing its commitment to fostering global entrepreneurship and interconnected business ecosystems.

In a significant move, the Government of Panama has officially granted IFZA a licence to operate a Free Zone in the country. This initiative allows IFZA to bring its proven model of growth-oriented, investor-friendly infrastructure to Latin America.

Often referred to as the “hub of the Americas”, Panama shares strong synergies with Dubai. The country 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, combined with the Panama Canal and globally connected air transport network, makes it an ideal base for nearshoring strategies and international expansion.

Martin G. Pedersen, Chairman of IFZA, commented:

“Our expansion into Panama is a natural extension of IFZA’s global growth strategy. Panama’s strategic geographic position, robust banking system, modern infrastructure, dollarized economy, and business-friendly regulatory framework make it an ideal partner for our next chapter. We are deeply committed to working collaboratively with the Panamanian government and local stakeholders to create shared economic value.”

Panama’s commitment to global compliance standards strengthens its attractiveness to international investors. The country was removed from the FATF grey list in 2023 and from the EU’s list of high-risk countries in 2024.

The new IFZA Panama Free Zone will serve as a mixed-use hub supporting a broad range of industries, including professional services, technology, logistics, trading, software, and industrial sectors.

Jochen Knecht, CEO of IFZA, added:

“Business has a superpower to connect people, cross borders, and breakdown barriers. Through IFZA Panama, our goal is not merely to open a Free Zone, but to build a bridge between Latin America and the UAE, enabling businesses to expand with confidence and shared purpose.”

With a track record of supporting over 60,000 businesses across its global ecosystem and partnerships in more than 50 countries, IFZA is uniquely positioned to attract substantial foreign direct investment into Panama.

Investor Benefits

Companies operating within IFZA Panama will enjoy significant fiscal advantages, including:

• Exemptions from corporate income tax
• Exemptions from import duties
• Exemptions from VAT

In addition, businesses will have access to a comprehensive end-to-end suite of services, including company formation, visa and immigration support (including family sponsorship), office and workplace solutions, corporate banking assistance, accounting and tax advisory, as well as relocation guidance for housing, schools, and lifestyle needs.

Strategic Impact

The Free Zone aligns with Panama’s national economic vision, contributing to job creation and positioning the country as a competitive, innovation-led hub in the region. Beyond its physical footprint, IFZA aims to identify high-potential opportunities across Latin America, tailor its Free Zone model to lower entry barriers, and accelerate business growth.

The initiative will also open pathways for Latin American companies to access the UAE and broader Middle Eastern markets, including Africa, India, and Pakistan.