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Panama Boosts Its Tech Future with AI, Cybersecurity, and Connectivity

TechPanamaAugust 2, 20262 min read

Panama Launches National Agenda for Advanced Technologies

On July 22, 2026, the National Secretariat of Science, Technology and Innovation (SENACYT) announced the official launch set for July 30 of the National Agenda for Advanced Technologies, which will be broadcast internationally on YouTube. This strategy focuses on advancing artificial intelligence, semiconductors, and microelectronics, aiming to position Panama as a regional hub for tech innovation. SENACYT (senacyt.gob.pa)

National Commission on Critical and Emerging Technologies: AI Focus

Aligned with this agenda, President José Raúl Mulino's government established the National Commission of Critical and Emerging Technologies (CNTCE) and its AI subcommission via an executive decree dated May 7, 2026. Its mission is to form state policies to responsibly develop, adopt, and regulate future technologies. Presidency (presidencia.gob.pa)

Legislative Progress: Panama as an AI Innovation Hub

To complement these institutional efforts, the National Assembly approved in its first debate the Bill 588, establishing an adaptive governance framework for AI. This proposal aims to position the country as a flexible and attractive "Innovation Hub" for AI development, contrasting with more rigid regulatory models in other nations. Assembly (asamblea.gob.pa)

Google Scholarships and AI Training for the Population

In the educational sphere, the government is offering up to 10,000 scholarships for AI and technology courses delivered by Google. This initiative is a massive opportunity for citizens to acquire digital competencies and emerging tools, expanding access to quality training during a pivotal moment of technological transformation. Panama News (noticiasdepanama.com)

Cybersecurity: Real Threats and Local Response

Digital security is also on the agenda. It was recently reported that 13 Panamanian companies —including sectors like logistics, banking, energy, and hospitality— were exposed in a serious Fortinet firewall breach, identified by Hudson Rock. This incident underscores that the nation is not exempt from global threats, highlighting an urgent need to strengthen cybersecurity at both enterprise and corporate levels. PanamaTech (panamatech.com.pa)

Overall Panorama: What Does It Mean for the Reader?

  • These actions demonstrate a state's structural commitment towards technology. The combination of policies, specialized commissions, legislation, and comprehensive training suggests a push toward a knowledge-based, innovative, and secure economy.
  • For professionals and students, Google's scholarships offer a direct pathway into the tech sector with high-value skills.
  • Companies face a dual challenge: leveraging digitalization while also defending against real cyber threats. Investing in information security is no longer optional.

Conclusion

Panama is charting a clear path toward digital transformation: combining strategic vision, institutional backing, legal tools, and a commitment to education. While challenges like cybersecurity persist, the country steadily advances towards a more competitive and resilient tech ecosystem.