A press release from the Ministry of Economy and Finance in Panama reads:

The Authority for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (AMPYME) reported that in the first five months of 2012, 4.271 new company records were received, highlights a report from the Economic and Social Analysis Unit of the Ministry of Economy and Finance (MEF), according to figures provided by AMPYME.

The report summarizes that the provinces with the highest number of entries were: Panama (434), Cocle (134) and Chiriqui (133). However, this additional number of entries was lower than last year. Veraguas (369) and Code (337) were the only provinces that saw more registrations.

The Authority for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises issued loan guarantees for B/.2.6 million for 1.261 micro and small entrepreneurs. The fund used B/.753,334. Trading activity remained the most supported with B/.1.4 million, benefiting 715 businessmen.

Source: Ministry of Economy and Finance (Panamá)

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10,300 New SMEs in Panama

August 2010

In the first seven months of the year 10,292 new micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) were registered, 126% more than in 2009.

Records held by the Panamanian MSME Authority (AMPyME in Spanish) show that most of the new companies were in the exports, services and agriculture sectors.

Up to $1.000 in Seed Funding for SMEs

November 2009

In addition to non-reimbursable funds, Panamanian entrepreneurs will receive technical assistance for elaborating business plans.

Congress is discussing Law 35, which comprises the creation of the Entrepreneurship Fostering Fund. This includes a Seed Capital trust fund, and resources for Technical Assistance, Guarantees and Micro-credit.

Brazilian Businessmen Visit Panama

October 2009

Representatives from various international franchises expressed their interest in operating in Panama.

The Brazilian delegation met with Jorge Luis González, sub director of the Small and Medium Enterprises Authority (AMPYME).

"Ricardo Camargo, director of the Brazilian Franchise Association, remarked that they have analyzed Panama for developing businesses there, as the country benefits from a very good international perception, and has an important market, as it is an attractive tourist destination", reported Prensa.com.

$50 Million for Small and Medium Panamanian Companies

July 2009

The Panamanian government is allocating this amount to the development of micro and small businesses involving 546,412 establishments on the national level.

Giselle Calcagno, Minster of the Micro, Small, and Medium Business Authority (AMPYME, acronym in Spanish) commented that the fund is designated for seed capital, micro-credit, collateral funds, and for technical training and assistance.