Panama to Host World Free Zones Organization's 12th World Congress in 2026: A Boost for Trade and Investment
Panama City, Panama – In a significant development for the global free zones industry, Panama has been selected to host the 12th World Free Zones Organization (World FZO) World Congress in 2026. The announcement follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between His Excellency Dr. Mohammed AlZarooni, Chairman of the World FZO, and His Excellency Julio Moltó, Minister of Commerce and Industries of the Republic of Panama. The signing ceremony took place in the presence of senior officials from both organizations, marking a pivotal moment for Panama’s international trade and investment landscape.
The World FZO World Congress is a prestigious global event, attracting leaders, policymakers, investors, and industry experts from around the world. It serves as a vital platform for discussing the latest trends, challenges, and opportunities within the free zones sector. The decision to hold the 2026 Congress in Panama underscores the country’s growing importance as a regional hub for trade, logistics, and financial services.
“We are delighted to welcome the World FZO World Congress to Panama in 2026,” stated His Excellency Julio Moltó. “This event will provide a tremendous opportunity to showcase Panama’s strengths as a dynamic and competitive free zone, attracting further investment and fostering collaboration among global stakeholders. It reinforces Panama’s commitment to being a leading player in international trade and logistics.”
Dr. Mohammed AlZarooni echoed this sentiment, adding, “Panama’s strategic location, robust infrastructure, and favorable business environment make it an ideal host for our World Congress. We anticipate a highly successful event that will contribute significantly to the advancement of the free zones industry worldwide. The Congress will focus on key themes such as sustainability, technology, and the future of free zones in a rapidly changing global economy.”
What to Expect in 2026: The 12th World FZO World Congress is expected to feature a comprehensive program including keynote speeches, panel discussions, workshops, and networking opportunities. Topics will likely cover:
- The impact of technological advancements (AI, blockchain) on free zones.
- Sustainability and ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) considerations within free zone operations.
- The role of free zones in facilitating global supply chain resilience.
- Strategies for attracting foreign direct investment (FDI) and promoting economic development.
- Regulatory frameworks and best practices for free zone management.
The hosting of this prestigious event is anticipated to generate significant economic benefits for Panama, including increased tourism, business opportunities, and enhanced international visibility. It signifies Panama’s continued dedication to fostering a thriving and innovative free zone ecosystem, solidifying its position as a vital gateway for global trade.
The MoU signing represents a significant step forward in strengthening the partnership between the World FZO and Panama, paving the way for a productive and impactful World Congress in 2026.
