Alamo and Hertz experienced 20% and 6% growth respectively in car rentals.
The increase in rentals in the first quarter when compared with the same period in 2008 indicates that the rental companies have not felt the crisis.
The article in Prensa.com reported statements by companies in the sector where Gloria de Vallarino from Hertz said that although they have experienced an increase in rentals in the first quarter over the same period in 2008, the foreign tourist market decreased by 9%.
The Panamanian car rental market has been growing, and has enough space for big international franchises as well as local small businesses.
The analysis of the sector by Raul Carrillo on laestrella.com.pa shows that operators continue to be optimistic in 2009, despite the global crisis: "We want to change the perception that we have to be the most expensive car rental in the country, said the manager of Hertz Panama, Gloria Elisa Vallarino.