IFZA, one of the world’s most dynamic and fastest-growing Free Zone communities in UAE, has launched IFZA Panama, a landmark step in its global expansion strategy.
The new IFZA Panama marks IFZA’s first physical presence in Latin America and reinforces its commitment to fostering global entrepreneurship and interconnected business ecosystems.
In a significant move, the Government of Panama has granted IFZA a licence to operate a Free Zone in the country. This initiative will allow IFZA to bring its proven model of growth-oriented, investor-friendly infrastructure to Latin America.
Panama, often referred to as the “hub of the Americas”, shares many synergies with Dubai. It is a vibrant trade and financial centre, home to over 60 local, regional, and international banks. Its strategic location, bridging North and South America, combined with the Panama Canal and a globally connected air transport network, makes it an ideal location to support nearshoring strategies and international expansion.
Martin G. Pedersen Chairman – IFZA
“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.”
The 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.
“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,” commented Jochen Knecht, CEO of IFZA.
Image Supplied | Cropped by GBN
With a track record of supporting over 60,000 businesses across its global ecosystem and presence and partnerships in more than 50 countries, IFZA is uniquely positioned to attract substantial foreign direct investment into Panama.
Companies operating within IFZA Panama Free Zone will benefit from significant fiscal
advantages, including exemptions from corporate income tax, import duties, and VAT –
making it a powerful base for global trade and expansion.
In addition, businesses establishing themselves in the Free Zone will gain access to a comprehensive, end-to-end suite of services, including:
Company formation and incorporation
Visa and immigration assistance, including family sponsorship
Office and workplace solutions
Corporate banking support
Accounting, tax registration, and advisory
Relocation guidance for real estate, schools, and lifestyle needs
The Free Zone will align with Panama’s national economic vision, contribute to job
creation, and position the country as a competitive, innovation-led hub in the region.
Beyond its physical footprint, IFZA’s goal is to identify high-potential opportunities
across Latin America and tailor its Free Zone model to lower entry barriers, ensure
compliance, and accelerate business growth. At the same time, the initiative will create
opportunities for Latin American companies to access the UAE and broader Middle
Eastern markets, including Africa, India and Pakistan.
