Panama Unveils National AI Strategy and Accelerates Digital Transformation
The Key Announcement
In recent weeks, Panama officially unveiled its National Artificial Intelligence Strategy 'Forging the Future Now' (2026‑2036) and the Advanced Technologies National Agenda. These are pivotal initiatives for its digital transformation, constructed with technical support from Georgia Tech and Arizona State University. With an investment of $105 million in semiconductors and microelectronics, the strategy aims to establish Panama as a 'Trusted AI Innovation Hub of Latin America.' To support this, new institutions have been launched, including the National Institute of Applied AI (INIAA), the National Cybersecurity Institute (INC), and the AI Government Board, among others.(observatorioia.com.pa)
Key Focus Areas
1. Infrastructure and Digital Coverage as an Inclusive Foundation
The strategy acknowledges that significant local connectivity, particularly in rural and indigenous areas, remains a challenge. It sets out clear goals: achieving 100% digital coverage for schools and health centers through the Universal Access Fund, mesh networks, accelerated deployment of 5G, and Edge AI (AI on local devices) as a bridge solution. It also includes physical centers like over 400 INFOPLAZAS as hubs for digital and AI literacy.(isoc.org.pa)
Why It Matters: This closes real gaps, extending technology to underserved areas. Recommendation: Companies and NGOs focused on digital inclusion should partner with INFOPLAZAS to scale training efforts.
2. Accelerated Digital Talent Development with Impact
The Talent Up! Panama program, partnering with Google, the IDB, and UTP, offers 10,000 scholarships for training in artificial intelligence, data analytics, cybersecurity, and cloud computing. A new Data Analytics degree program in Ciudad del Saber by Drake University was also announced.(presidencia.gob.pa)
Why It Matters: It increases the supply of technical professionals in a country aiming to expand AI-based solutions. Recommendation: Interested professionals should register early through Panama Conecta to access these opportunities.
3. Adaptive Governance and Institutional Structures for Innovation
The strategy includes flexible regulatory frameworks such as sectoral sandboxes and ethical impact assessments solely for high-impact AI. The National Commission for Critical and Emerging Technologies and its AI Subcommission have been established, along with the Innovation, Technology, and Digital Transformation Parliamentary Front to articulate tech policy. The Adaptive AI Governance Bill No. 588 is in its third debate.(observatorioia.com.pa)
Why It Matters: It provides certainty for investors and allows for iterative regulation based on experience. Recommendation: Startups, academics, and companies should engage in public discussions to offer technical feedback.
4. State Digitalization and Public Services Enhancement
The Panama Conecta platform is being enhanced, already boasting over 780,000 active users, with plans to digitize up to 385 procedures by 2028, integrating 86 APIs among state institutions. Cybersecurity capabilities are also being strengthened with the governmental SOC.(isoc.org.pa)
Why It Matters: This improves citizen experience and reduces administrative costs. Recommendation: Digital solutions companies can participate in challenge-based bids to propose improvements in line with this agenda.
Conclusion
Panama has laid out a strategic and ambitious technological agenda that tackles infrastructure, talent, regulation, and inclusion. This is not merely about isolated initiatives but an interconnected ecosystem to transform the country into a regional Digital Canal in AI. Keep an eye on the upcoming Talent Up! call, INIAA's implementation for startups, the debates on adaptive governance law, and the AI summit by the IDB in October. Panama is not just planning its technological future; it is beginning to build it.