The Union of Industrialists of Panama has launched the "Green Panama" certification for companies which implement good environmental practices.
The "Green Panama" seal of approval, will be awarded to companies who demonstrate consistency in the implementation of best practices in areas such as energy efficiency, waste management and water resource management.
The local economy is beginning to be affected by the negative impact of the road closures by indigenous people in the province of Chiriqui.
The dairy industry, as well as horticulture, fuel transportation and goods such as drinks and beer are facing extra costs associated with recent events.
Economic losses are in the "millions," said Juan Francisco Kiener, president of the Union of Industrialists in Panama.
The Panamanian economy continues to grow, demanding more and more professional and technical staff, which the local job market fails to satisfy.
Companies are failing to fill their vacancies, as they lack candidates with the required skills and experience. This situation, far from being resolved, is getting worse, as more transnational companies open office in the country, increasing the demand for skilled workers.
Panamanian businessmen want to prevent the new regulations from making the country less competitive in the region.
Proposed changes include reviewing Sundays as the only free day, extra time, and wages tied to productivity.
“Alfredo Burgos, head of the National Private Enterprise Council (CONEP), and Juan Francisco Kiener, president of the Industrial Association both favor allowing other free days other than Sundays and intend to make the same modification to tax free zones regulations”.