Panama’s hotel sector is expected to post stronger results in 2026, with projected occupancy rising to between 58% and 60%, according to Victor Concepcion, president of the Panamanian Hotel Association, Apatel. The forecast is tied to higher visitor arrivals, continued tourism promotion, and a stronger pipeline of events targeting incentives and group travel.

Concepcion said efforts by the International Tourism Promotion Fund, PROMTUR, and the Panama Tourism Authority, ATP, are already showing results, especially through events aimed at organized travel segments. That matters because group and business-related tourism often has a wider economic reach, benefiting hotels, restaurants, transportation providers, retailers, and other service businesses at the same time.

The outlook also points to a broader improvement in Panama’s visitor economy. President Jose Raul Mulino recently stated that Panama closed 2025 with 3 million international visitors, representing 8.4% growth in tourism. He also noted that tax revenue rose 13.4% in 2025 compared with 2024, while the government is planning more than B/.11 billion in public investment this year. Those figures suggest a more active economic backdrop for 2026, with tourism playing a visible role in that momentum.

Shopping centers are also preparing to benefit from the expected increase in visitors. Mayra Batista, spokesperson for the Panamanian Association of Shopping Centers, said tourists represent an important additional source of income beyond regular daily traffic. Retail centers are working to become part of the visitor experience, which shows how tourism growth can spread beyond the hospitality sector itself.

At the same time, hotel leaders say there are still important issues to address. Concepcion pointed to the need for stronger English-language skills and better customer service across the sector. He also raised concerns about informal rentals and digital platforms that, in his view, compete with hotels under different rules. Another limitation is the absence of a tourism satellite account, which would provide more precise and reliable data on tourism’s real contribution to Panama’s GDP. Current estimates place that contribution at roughly 10% to 12%.

For residents, expats, and investors, this kind of tourism forecast is worth watching because it reflects more than hotel room demand. It suggests confidence in Panama as a destination and supports the businesses and infrastructure that make areas more livable and more attractive to newcomers. In well-known lifestyle and tourism markets such as Panama City and Santa Catalina, stronger visitor activity can support restaurant growth, service upgrades, retail performance, and short-term demand for accommodations. Those community links come from Casa Solution’s site map and community pages.

How This Could Affect Property Markets

This does not automatically mean property prices will jump across the board. That would be too simplistic. But a healthier tourism cycle can improve sentiment in areas that depend on visitors, hospitality spending, and lifestyle appeal. Hotels filling more rooms, more passengers moving through airports, and more organized events coming into the country can all help strengthen confidence in commercial activity.

In practical terms, areas with established tourism appeal may see more attention from buyers looking for second homes, income properties, or future retirement options. Markets tied to leisure, beach access, and hospitality services could benefit the most if this trend holds. Still, the real impact will depend on whether Panama also improves service quality, infrastructure, and fair enforcement across the accommodation sector.

The positive takeaway is that Panama appears to be entering 2026 with stronger tourism demand, improving revenue collection, and new public works that could help support business activity in multiple regions.

For buyers, sellers, and investors looking to understand where tourism and property trends may intersect in Panama, Casa Solution can help you identify communities and opportunities that fit your goals.

Article written: March 8, 2026