Strengthening the bonds of cooperation between the United States & Panama and creating business opportunities for business leaders of both nations

The U.S.-Panama Business Council (USPA) was created to foster business opportunities and understanding between the two countries, especially since the Canal administration transferred to Panama, which has in effect changed the traditional relationship. A truly bi-national organization, USPA has a Chapter both in Panama and the United States with a fully staffed office, and representatives from both countries serve on its Boards.

Panama is the third largest country in Latin America as far as U.S. investments and the U.S. enjoys a positive trade balance with Panama. However, the importance of Panama goes far beyond trade issues and into areas such as hemispheric security, the efficient operation of the Panama Canal which affects U.S. imports and exports, and cooperation with international issues of a political nature. This close relationship, in gestures of cooperation, resulted in Panama giving political asylum to such controversial figures as the Shah of Iran, General Raoul Cedras, and the Cuban refugees in Guatanamo

Through its affiliations, the Council acts as the principal representative of numerous Panamanian and U.S. companies, facilitating trade and investment between the two nations, and promoting strategic alliances and joint ventures. USPA brings a broad range of expertise to the gamut of business challenges faced by its members when conducting business in Panama or the United States. Today’s economy demands a global view, one that encompasses cooperative alliances, strategic teaming and an understanding of prevailing market currents. USPA experienced in long-term planning, brings such a perspective to each of its member relationships. The Council takes pride in providing its membership with creative, but practical prescriptions for full achievement of their vision.

The two chapters work jointly to coordinate programs and events specifically designed to strengthen the relationship between the two countries and promote trade and investment. One of the programs organized by the U.S.-Panama Business Council is an annual trade and investment mission, which takes place during the winter/spring months. To-date the delegations have consisted of approximately forty U.S. companies, and the agenda included meetings with both the public and private sector at the very highest level. Past leadership has included Thomas F. (Mack) McLarty, Counselor to the President, Secretary of Commerce Ron Brown, George Allen, former Governor of Virginia, Congressman of Virginia Tom Davis and Steve Forbes. Other programs include conferences, forums, workshops, promotion meetings, dinners with high profiled keynote speakers from both the private and public sector, among others.