panamajames
1/25/2018 10:45 EST
Is there a slowdown in Panama? Is this a buyers market? Although growth of the economy in general still remains above 5%, it is lower than the vigorous 10% of a few years ago. Is the cause the Martinelli on full tilt economy vs Varela in slowdown mode? New elections next year.
Varela may be hoping on the Free Trade Agreement with China to help the situation. Based on current unemployment and the growth of independent or informal work from entrepreneurs, both Expat and Locals, we see that starting in 2018, Panama has entered a phase of economic slowdown. Businessmen in the commerce sector are even talking about "recession", both in retail and in wholesale sales.
From a statement issued by the Chamber of Commerce, Industries and Agriculture of Panama:
Although we expect growth of the Panamanian economy of approximately 5.4% for this year 2018, such increase continues to be supported by economic sectors linked to foreign trade, such as the Panama Canal, ports and airports.
As a representative organization of the country's private entrepreneurial effort, the Chamber of Commerce, Industries and Agriculture of Panama (CCIAP) reiterates its concern about the problems that hamper the progress of sectors long marginalized by policies that discourage their permanence and certainly threaten their productive continuity, such as the industrial and agricultural sectors. The same is true for other slowdowns such as trade, tourism, construction and real estate, which also require new perspectives in the future.
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volcan357
1/25/2018 18:49 EST
If Varela opens the floodgates to China then the Chinese will be coming in to buy up everything. I noticed the screen on the ATM machine at banco nacional now is in three languages. Spanish and English of course but now also Chinese. That is new. I just got back from spending over a month in Colombia where I didn't see a single Chinese person. The Chinese are good business people. 5% growth isn't bad. You can't always have 10% growth. Panama requires a visa for Chinese citizens to enter the country. If Panama changes the visa requirement for Chinese citizens then you will see a lot more Chinese here in Panama. That would increase tourism and boost the real estate market as well.
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panamajames
1/26/2018 13:10 EST
The Federation of Banks and Credit Unions that I work for in Panama City, just sent me out a notice that the website that is up and coming for online banking will be available, not only English and Spanish, but also Chinese. I guess that is preparing for the future. I haven't heard if they will be accepting the Yuan as yet.
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hatman
1/26/2018 14:14 EST
I visited Panama in 2011 with a US man and his Chinese lady friend. In reading my Lonely Planet book, I saw that 10% of the Panama population is of Chinese descent. Why? Because the Chinese were brought over to build the Canal.
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panamajames
1/29/2018 10:55 EST
Tourism to Panama is on the rise.
Increased airline connectivity, international fairs and social media exposure have combined to boost European tourist visits to Panama in the last year, and with Air China set to start flying to Tocumen International in March, the Tourism Authority. (ATP) is looking for a similar increase from Asia during 2018.
Some 227,963 European travelers entered the country from January to December 2017 and visited, mainly, Bocas de Toro, Boquete, Tierras Altas, Boca Chica, Pedasí, Azuero region, the beaches of the Pacific and the Valley of Antón in Coclé.
According to figures from the Tourism Authority of Panama (ATP) , 17,070 more Europeans than the previous year arrived, an increase of 8.1%.
Direct flights to key destinations in Europe such as Spain, Germany, France, the Netherlands and charter flights from Poland continues to strengthen Panama as the Hub of the Americas.
The promotion of the country in international fairs, as well as the international promotion campaign in digital media, has been key to selling the attractions offered by Panama says the ATP.
The European airlines that increased passenger revenue in 2017 were: Iberia, with a total of 69,381 passengers, some 9,501 more than in 2016, ( a growth of 15.9%) and KLM, with a total of 55,519 passengers, 2,044 more than in 2016, (up 3.8%).
Air France follows with a total of 51,326 passengers, some 7,940 more than in 2016, an increase of 18.3%.
In the target markets, according to recent Google measurements, during 2017, Panama was one of the countries with the most views on YouTube and significantly increased searches related to trips to Panama.
Mentions of Panama increased by more than 66% in cities of the United States, Canada and Spain, between January and November of 2017. While the traffic on the page visitpanama.com was up more than 500% with 36 million views.
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volcan357
1/29/2018 23:14 EST
Panama needs to let Chinese citizens enter the country without a visa. Hopefully the government will be smart enough to figure that out. Requiring a visa hurts tourism in an extreme way as the process is a super pain. Requiring a visa in most cases will most likely result in a prospective tourist choosing a different country to visit. The problem is that politicians in general have a tendency to make stupid decisions. This is true most anywhere in the world.
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panamajames
1/30/2018 19:30 EST
Gas prices are best in Panama.......
Price in dollars Regular Special Diesel
El Salvador 3.29 3.48 3.04
Guatemala 3.31 3.46 2.83
Honduras 3.63 3.94 3.33
Nicaragua 3.74 3.86 3.34
Costa Rica 3.93 4.00 3.40
Panama 2.99 3.11 2.80
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panamajames
1/31/2018 12:29 EST
The Panamanian airline Copa Airlines expanded its network to 78 destinations in 32 countries in Central America, South America and the Caribbean.
Among the new destinations are two cities: Fortaleza and Salvador, in Brazil and one in Bridgetown, Barbados. These new routes will be added from the first semester of the year.
The new route of Bárbados will start on July 17, while the two routes of Fortaleza and Salvador, in Brazil, will be ready from July 18 to 24, respectively. In 2017, Copa added the new routes from Denver, in the United States and Mendoza, Argentina.
The company also modernized and expanded its fleet. This year, six new aircraft will be added, of which five are 737 MAX 9 series aircraft with more efficient engines that reduce fuel consumption by 15% and 40% quieter.
With this growth, the airline expects to generate around 800 new jobs in the country, which represents a growth of the payroll of 18% compared to 2016, the company confirmed.
Copa Airlines employed a total of 8,953 and 9,204 people in 2016 and 2017, respectively, and expects to reach 10,052 workers this year.
Most of the new vacancies will be held in 'high-level positions', such as pilots, flight attendants, administrative or mechanics, said Pedro Heilbron, the airline's chief executive.
In 2016 Copa transported more than 12.6 million passengers, while in 2017 it transported 13.5 million passengers, which represents an increase of 7.1% over the previous year.
For this year, the airline expects to exceed the figure of 14.4 million.
In 2017 Copa Airlines was recognized by FlightStats as the most timely in Latin America for the fifth consecutive year, and the fourth most punctual airline in the world, according to the Official Airline Guide (OAG).
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Chucklesg
1/31/2018 12:45 EST
While I love to fly COPA, it often is more expensive that any other airline going to PTY. And the stock can be played as well!
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mghinton
2/1/2018 05:15 EST
i have no idea where all these folks are coming from to buy all the high rise apartments in the city ,, but i said the same thing 15 years ago when i counted 21 going up within sight of each other down town ,, now they are building houses here in chorrerra 1100 in one development and selling for 99,000 whet e they were 48,000 5 years ago ,, openig shopping malls on every corner and we have a price mart and reba smith 5 minutes from my house now .. i love it here ,, i have bought and sold 3 places since i have been here and with the Chinese coming in " great workers " it will just get better i hope ..
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panamajames
2/1/2018 22:07 EST
Construction Increased 11% in 2017 in Panama. The most recent figures from the Comptroller General of the Republic show that the highest value of new construction, additions and repairs was registered in the district of Panama, with a total of $1.511 billion. They were followed by Arraiján, with $170 million, Colón, with $154 million, La Chorrera, with $147 million, David, with $97 million, and Santiago, with $32 million.
Regarding the type of construction, the highest value was recorded in residential projects, with a total of $1.337 billion, 12% more than in the previous year. This was followed by non-residential projects, with $804 million, 11% more than was reported in 2016.
The National Aqueduct and Sewer Institute of Panama (Instituto de Acueducto y Alcantarillados Nacionales de Panamá) submitted an EIA to build a new potable water supply system in the district of Santa Rosa, province of Colon, the project includes a raw water intake, adduction line, possible intermediate pumping, treatment plant and remodeling of the plant's administrative building. The investment amount for the project called "Study, design, construction and operation and maintenance of the water treatment plant in Sabanitas", is estimated at $108 million.
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mghinton
2/2/2018 14:19 EST
wow great information ,, would have thought chorrerra would be far and beyond arejan but according to where it starts and stops ,, then again that may include nueva arejan where my wifes mom lives and the road construction at panama pacifico ??
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panamajames
2/5/2018 23:16 EST
Panama is the country with the greatest logistic competitiveness in Latin America, occupying the number 1 position and ranked globally in position 40 out of 160 economies evaluated, according to the Logistics Performance Index, a ranking issued by the World Bank, and to maintain that position. sitial, port companies such as PSA Panama International Terminal seek to attract human capital.
On February 3, PSA, with the support of the Ministry of Labor and Labor Development (Mitradel) through its regional Labor Directorate in La Chorrera, recruited personnel to fill vacancies for stevedores, general assistants, operators and operators. of gantry crane, RTG, tractors, forklifts.
They also offered positions for operators of heavy equipment, planners, mechanics and electromechanics, which caught the attention of the attendees.
The activity was carried out in Plaza Italia, with the assistance of job seekers, mostly young people, residents of La Chorrera and nearby towns.
So far in 2018, the Mitradel has carried out six targeted recruitments of personnel, three of them during the month of January, two for the aeronautical sector and one for the private schools sector.
Meanwhile, the first recruitment in February was held last Friday, February 2, for the Applus company that offered a total of 50 vacancies for electricians.
In its press release, the Mitradel noted that on Saturday, February 3, Copa Airlines, also held an employment fair at the Atlapa Convention Center, where they seek personnel to fill the positions of finance, audit, commercial, legal, technology, technical operations, airports, customer service, on-board service, safety and quality management, flight operations, security, cargo and courier.
In addition to available positions were for cabin crew, pilots, mechanics and airport logistics.
Pedro Heilbron, CEO of Copa Airlines, said that during 2018 they will create nearly 800 new jobs, which means a growth of the payroll of 18% compared to 2016.
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panamajames
2/6/2018 18:14 EST
Migdal Development Corp. submitted an EIA to build two residential modules in Ancon, province of Panama, consisting of five towers that will house 1,091 apartments and 2,710 parking spaces. According to the study, the project is called Condado Valley and the total investment is estimated at $200 million.
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volcan357
2/6/2018 21:27 EST
I suppose it will be good for the economy but I could never imagine living in a box surrounded by over a thousand other similar boxes.
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panamajames
2/6/2018 22:07 EST
As of January, Panama overtook Chile as the darling of bond investors. It all came together in 2017. In September, Moody’s had already upgraded Panama’s outlook to positive (from stable) and the IMF declared the Panamanian economy one of the most dynamic in the region. The year-end numbers came in stronger than many had thought that they would. As Panama expects more business and leisure travelers from China, a codeshare flight agreement is in the works between Copa Airlines and Air China. Frommer’s is touting Panama as one of the top places to go in the world.
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volcan357
2/7/2018 00:06 EST
If Panama wants to have more Chinese tourists they need to stop requiring a visa for Chinese citizens. If they don't they will end up losing tourists from China who will visit countries not requiring a visa instead of Panama. Trying to get a visa to enter Panama is not a pleasant experience.
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panamajames
3/20/2018 11:33 EST
From a statement issued by the World Bank:
Washington, March 15, 2018—The World Bank Board of Directors approved a US $80 million project today to improve the infrastructure and quality of health, education, water and sanitation services in 12 Indigenous territories of Panama. The innovative project is based on the priorities established by the Indigenous communities and their traditional leaders.
The loan will support the implementation of the Comprehensive National Plan for Indigenous Peoples of Panama. The program aims to support the capacity of Indigenous Authorities and the Panamanian Government to work together to plan and implement development in Indigenous territories. It also aims to improve the quality, cultural relevance and sustainability of investments in Indigenous territories.
“This support in the Development Plan is important as the Indigenous peoples have shared their development vision with the national government. These are isolated communities which need access to roads, schools, medical clinics, and water, all the while maintaining their culture and identity, defending their territories and protecting the natural resources that are life for the Native Peoples and the country,” said Guna Yala Indigenous community leader Maximiliano Igwayoikiler.
Although Panama has one of the strongest economies in the Latin American and Caribbean region, there is persistent inequality. This is especially true among Indigenous Panamanians, most of whom live in poverty. The country is also particularly vulnerable to natural disasters and the effects of climate change, which disproportionately affect Indigenous communities, who depend on the natural environment for food.
In the short term, the project will focus on urgently needed infrastructure and equipment prioritized by Indigenous communities and their health, education, water and sanitation officials. In the medium term, the project will support the design and pilot-testing of programs to improve the cultural relevance of those services. In the long term, the project seeks to transform the capacity of the government and Indigenous leaders to plan and invest in Indigenous territories, in keeping with the vision and priorities established by those communities.
“From the outset, this government has been firmly committed to defending and promoting human rights in which increased participation of Indigenous peoples and state policies to improve their quality of life are central issues,” said María Luisa Romero, Interior Minister of Panama. “We recognize the rights of native peoples as the backbone of Panamanian culture.”
The project will directly assist some 200,000 people through improved infrastructure and better quality and cultural relevance of services provided in their communities. The country’s Indigenous population, estimated at 418,000 people, should also benefit from support for better governance. That includes improvements in the visibility of Indigenous groups, recognition and exercise of their rights, and inclusion in the country’s prosperity.
The program is also expected to contribute to national climate change objectives by applying sustainable standards and practices to the construction of health, education, water and sanitation facilities.
“This project is an important step towards improving the social mobility of Indigenous peoples and reflects the World Bank’s commitment to supporting the most vulnerable populations,” said Seynabou Sakho, World Bank Director for Central America.
This innovative program, aims to support a comprehensive development model based on proposals by Indigenous communities that were agreed upon with the government.
The project draws on the World Bank’s experience in different sectors and countries with Indigenous peoples to address issues including inclusion, development and access to information and data, systems to provide intercultural services, and permanent roundtables for coordination between the government and Indigenous leaders. This project seeks to create a comprehensive development platform that can be replicated in other countries.
The total project budget is US$85 million, of which US$80 million will be financed with a loan from the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD). The 25-year loan will have a grace period of 5.5 years.
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FincaCazador
3/20/2018 12:02 EST
I'd have liked to see them float a bond to raise the money for infrastructure myself, rather than bank financing. That way, the people could take part in some of the investment returns instead of just the usual players getting rich.
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llseldon
3/20/2018 12:42 EST
D### do you ever go to the playa?
Suave tequila.
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shar501
3/20/2018 14:42 EST
what a great idea. Finding a competent honest contractor would be the next challenge.
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panamajames
3/22/2018 10:01 EST
The geographical position, the port logistic hub and the robust financial system including 72 banks and the world's most solid financial system, favor Panama to become a platform for fuel distribution in the region, said economist Leonor Gómez, president of the Convention and World Oil and Gas Exhibition of Petróleos Panamá (Petropan)
Gómez addressed the issue during a meeting on Wednesday, where he announced the progress of the first exhibition and exhibition of oil and gas to be held in the Panamanian capital from October 25 to 28 next, at the Atlapa Convention Center.
Gómez sees the hydrocarbon business as an opportunity to boost the growth of the country's economy.
'Panama is a very competitive country, has the Colon Free Zone, for example, where you can store everything the oil companies need. The cost per square meter is cheaper, it is $ 4.00 versus other countries, where it is at $ 16.00 '.
Other factors that the executive highlighted are the ports. While he pondered that being the number one country in the flagging of maritime vessels, he argued that we do not have oil tankers, "which are a big market."
Other assets in the country include tanker systems, 72 banks, the world's most solid financial system and the tourism sector, said Gómez.
In that sense, Gómez projected Panama as a future logistics hub and petroleum business center, such as Rotterdam (in the Netherlands) or Singapore, which have no oil but are distribution powers worldwide.
Víctor Javier Jaén, in charge of marketing the event, announced that they expect the participation of more than 175 countries, especially from Europe, Africa and Asia; in addition to the attendance of more than 2,500 people and the participation of exhibitors who will share the new scientific, financial and business trends in the maritime, gas and oil industry of the world.
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panamajames
4/14/2018 00:12 EST
The National Council of Housing Promoters (Convivienda) plans to sell 8,958 units of housing nationwide this year in 2018, after having sold 7,219 units last year in 2017.
Regarding the units sold in 2017, 78% corresponded to preferential interest homes, valued up to $120 thousand, 19% corresponded to homes with prices of $120 thousand to $350 thousand, and 3% to units with prices over $350 thousand.
Last year, most of the homes sold corresponded to those located in the price range from $65 thousand to $80 thousand, followed by units whose prices range between $95 thousand and $120 thousand.
Laestrella.com.pa reports that "... During the presentation of the results for the year 2017 and projections for this year, Elisa Suárez de Gómez, executive director of Convivienda, insisted that 'it is unsustainable' to build in the price range between $40 thousand and $65 thousand, 'it is impossible to obtain cost effectiveness'."
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panamajames
4/19/2018 19:11 EST
From a report compiled by the General Comptroller of the Republic:
The Monthly Index of Economic Activity (IMAE) in the Republic, for the period January-February 2018, grew by 3.85%, compared to the same period in 2017. The inter - annual monthly variation of February 2018, compared to the same month in 2017, was 3.10%.
The main categories of economic activity that presented a favorable performance were: trade, transport, storage and communications (includes canal, ports and aviation), manufacturing industries, public administration, construction, electricity and water, and fishing.
Commercial activity, one of the most important categories in the economy, was driven by demand from local commerce; and the Colon Free Zone. Transport and communications services showed favorable behavior, due to the net tons of the Panama Canal, and telecommunications.
The category of manufacturing industries registered positive results in activities such as the manufacture of alcoholic beverages and the elaboration of food products.
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salty70
4/19/2018 20:37 EST
That's a strong report!
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salty70
4/19/2018 20:37 EST
That's a strong report!
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salty70
4/19/2018 20:38 EST
That's a strong report!
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panamajames
4/24/2018 19:46 EST
Inmobiliaria Milla 7, S.A. submitted an EIA to build, in the town of Omar Torrijos, province of Panama, a residential complex consisting of four apartment buildings with 21 levels each, which will house a total of 676 housing units. According to the study, the project is called "Loma Verde Residential Complex" and it is expected that $45 million will be invested.
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dunnee
4/25/2018 18:17 EST
Well when a person like this who's it (originator of post) tells us that he.. she is from Canada and with authority that the CA$ is called the Toonie some of us have tendency to back up a half step.
Appalling, boring and trying.
Best of luck.
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llseldon
4/25/2018 18:32 EST
A loonie (duck) is a Canadian one dollar coin & a toonie (two metal coin) is a two dollar coin should you care.
Saludos amigos de Chagres.
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panamajames
5/1/2018 12:32 EST
For Central America, Panama more than doubles any other country in our region for the largest concentration of office building projects. The supply of apartments is exceeding the demand in fact. Panama leads the way with $900 million, this based on the commercial intelligence area of ??CentralAmericaData. Costa Rica is less than half of that.
According to the business platform, 117 environmental impact studies (EIA) were presented in Panama between January and December 2017.
Next is Costa Rica, with $ 436 million and 102 EIA; while in Guatemala, 63 projects were submitted for the amount of $ 247 million.
According to the source, Honduras submitted a study for the amount of $ 10 million, while in Nicaragua and El Salvador seven studies were presented together, with an estimated investment of $ 3 million.
The construction of buildings in the country also has a strong public investment. Through the Techos de Esperanza program, the government has allocated millionaire figures for the construction of multifamily housing. The Ministry of Housing and Territorial Planning, without totaling amounts, confirmed that it has tendered 35,800 homes within this program. Just last week, the Government announced the construction of 1,620 more apartments for the project of Urban Renovation of Columbus, these at a cost of $ 99 million and adding to the 5 thousand apartments under construction in Altos del Lago.
The National Council of Housing Promoters (Convivienda) sold a total of 5,989 apartments last year, almost double the number of houses sold, illustrating the preference of Panamanians for living in condos, 67% of their annual sales was in this sector.
Most of the apartments sold are in the center of the city, in areas such as San Francisco, Parque Lefevre, Ancon, Juan Diaz, Bethania and Calidonia.
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llseldon
5/1/2018 14:11 EST
Calidnia LoL Zona Roja
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llseldon
5/1/2018 14:12 EST
BTW panamajames did you go to the beach?
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panamajames
5/1/2018 14:54 EST
The first Beach date is planned for the month of May as that is when the resorts lower their prices and it becomes more affordable. We will hit a different beach every month in fact, until they raise the prices again and the Snowbirds flock to paradise for another high season in the sun, to get away from all that miserable snow up north.
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llseldon
5/1/2018 15:41 EST
Good plan, do they still have the international surf event at the resort on Azuero, Playa Venao?
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panamajames
5/1/2018 17:54 EST
Yes and I would avoid that weekend like the plague, unless you are a surfer Lou.
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dunnee
5/2/2018 18:06 EST
ll, well sir a 'loon' is not a duck, it is a waterbird known as a diver.
Fitting that your boy PJ called the CA$ a Toonie aka 'a 2 $ bill' as we in the USA know all too well is a 'nut job'.
10 to 1 PJ has never even been to Canada, better yet dose not hold a CA passport, that was his rap when Bush was president so he told us, 'so people don't hate me'.
Our #1 "turkey licker".
Good day.
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RICOBREEZE802MARK
5/2/2018 19:28 EST
The plan was to reduce the number of people in the city. to do that you need homes, and jobs. so that is the reason for the cookie cutter style homes. build 5k units, that would be around 20k people, workers in the mall, which they will spend their checks in as well for goods.
china? well china has far to many people and no where near what they need to fed and take care of everyone, no better way then to ship 2 to 3ook people out and over to panama. many have money and will come here to work and start companies. the train system is the bait to get the president to open the gates and when he does they will flood in. which is not a bad idea.
the train system will be built mainly by them, using very few local workers, yeah thats on the down low, don't want the local unions that agree to take a job building a high rise, only for them to get about half way and then scream STRIKE. so won't be hiring many of them at all.
china will flood in with their people, and this whole country will boom again, homes will be sold, land will be sold, and many places will open up.
The HUGE draw back for all the local workers is, you won't have a job. right now colombians and venezeuelan's are here already, the over flow from bringing them in to help build the new canal, well it's done and they refuse to go home. but these people out work many here.. I have a colombian friend who came here to work on building a 2nd story market,, all local workers and him, after the first two weeks, the locals grabbed him and said kid if you don't slow down, we are going to throw you off this roof.
now with all the new workers from china, they all will have a work visa, meaning we can hire them. I for one would hire them over the locals any day of the week
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llseldon
5/2/2018 19:32 EST
Damn Dunnee vaya la playa.
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Panama2017
5/2/2018 21:27 EST
The challenge of integrating a culture like China focused on lean, efficient processes with a laid back Carribean culture like Panama will be interesting to watch.
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Chucklesg
5/2/2018 21:37 EST
I was thinking of moving back to Panama, but knowing how the Chinese gov’t operates, after they flood Panama with Yuen and people, they will make a quiet effort to take over the canal, possibly with the help of Venezuela and Nicaragua. The Panamanian government will be unable to prevent it, and as the US continues to withdraw from Latin America. And the racist Trump and anti-Hispanic policies, the Chinese will “play”
Panama into submission because of the intolerable debt.
I do not want to live in China or a Chinese protectorate!
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llseldon
5/3/2018 02:40 EST
True chucklesg the Chimese already have control of both ports & close Diablo Rd so all traffic has to go thru “the circle of terror”, you can see in the casinos how many are now in Panama althoughg they have had a presents since the construction of the RR in 1850s, what’s next.
Save Panama friends of the Chagres.
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profman2
5/3/2018 07:15 EST
iterator Leave your foolish US political bias out of it. If you want racism, Obama raised it to a level not seen since the 60's and did more damage than any past president. Leave the political garbage for other forums. This one is intended to help folks with questions, not spout uninformed foolishness. Plenty of political forums to spout that nonsense.
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llseldon
5/3/2018 08:09 EST
Amen profman2
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Panama2017
5/3/2018 09:44 EST
Censorship is not appropriate in this forum. IMO. I dismiss much of what's posted as nonsense, or offensive, or inappropriate, or provencial, or political or just plain discriminatory.
But y'all should still feel free to go ahead and post "whatever" with no obligation to please anyone. Just hit that delete button. I do.
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llseldon
5/3/2018 11:18 EST
Soooo Panama2017 should I tell you, et al, how much I despise Trump & what an embarrassment he is to represent the USA to the world, actually no I don't think this the forum for that comment but there it was, sad, for thos U.S. members on the forum when was the last U.S. president you could be proud of??? Maybe Ike?? Oh, well vaya la playa amigos de Chagres, get away from your keyboards & explore Panamá, "Tierra de mi corazon" , so much to see & explore & you're on the keyboard!!!!
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salty70
5/3/2018 11:25 EST
Keep your political comments to yourself!
That's not what this site is for!
Nobody wants to know you don't like President Trump!
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salty70
5/3/2018 11:25 EST
Keep your political comments to yourself!
That's not what this site is for!
Nobody wants to know you don't like President Trump!
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llseldon
5/3/2018 11:33 EST
Gheee salty70 sorry I offended you, but I thought I'd get a compliment for NOT using any 4 letter words LoL, go to the beach, por favor.
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salty70
5/3/2018 11:42 EST
You didn't offend me!
I just think this site is to help Xpats, to get good information from you locals.
And by the way I'm sitting on the beach!
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salty70
5/3/2018 11:42 EST
You didn't offend me!
I just think this site is to help Xpats, to get good information from you locals.
And by the way I'm sitting on the beach!
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salty70
5/3/2018 11:42 EST
You didn't offend me!
I just think this site is to help Xpats, to get good information from you locals.
And by the way I'm sitting on the beach!
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llseldon
5/3/2018 11:53 EST
I so agree with you salty70, congrats, which beach?
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llseldon
5/3/2018 11:55 EST
BTW y FYI, why did your post come through 3 times?
Saudos.
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Panama2017
5/3/2018 12:23 EST
There is a delay so no need to hit Enter more than once.
Again, talk about what you want, I don't care. But politics involving the Chinese presence in Panama is relevant. U.S. politics not so much. But no one's going to be able to stop you from talking U.S. politics except the moderator. If some content or opinion gives you heartburn and the moderator doesn't care then you're out of luck.
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llseldon
5/3/2018 12:43 EST
Si Panama2017, the chinos are the issue, ciudadanos.
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sweethomepanama
5/3/2018 12:48 EST
Seriously ??? Dont you all have private emails that you can banter back and forth with ????
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Panama2017
5/3/2018 13:12 EST
I wonder that all the time when others are bantering back and forth. But somehow when I am involved in the bantering it doesn't bother me so much. Anyway, I'm done. Probably for the next couple months...see you then. Chao!
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Chucklesg
5/3/2018 13:29 EST
Because the Trump administration has abandoned Central and South America, and the Chinese chose economic war over military war, the danger for Panama is that the canal will be controlled by the Chinese, while the US worries about the "lost" Middle East and other places far away.
This has everything to do with Panama and those who are there and those who wish to be there. The US and and its anti-Hispanic attitude is foregoing its neighbors, and uses a "guns not butter" approach to diplomacy, while the Chinese are "buttering up" every nation the US abandons, including Panama. Peligroso.
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profman2
5/3/2018 13:49 EST
You all spout this nonsense about anti hispanic and you know it;s sheer garbage, How about the US simply apply the same requirments Panama does for US citizens to come here. If the US simply had that, there wouldn't be any issue. See, Panama cares if criminals are crossing their borders. Now, you see why politics don't belong here?
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Panama2017
5/3/2018 14:21 EST
No. I don't see why the discussion regarding China's presence in Panama doesn't belong here. It absolutely does. But just hit the Delete key if the discussion bothers you.
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shar501
5/3/2018 14:53 EST
as I was saying, before I was cut off, you'll find no Steve Jobs down here. When people struggle for survival and corrupt Dictators live lavishly, what do you expect other than a caravan or people trying to rush the US border. Note that Canada is unwilling to take any of the people claiming that they are seeking asylum in the US. There is a US Embassy in Honduras, where matters of asylum are handled.
t
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shar501
5/3/2018 14:53 EST
as I was saying, before I was cut off, you'll find no Steve Jobs down here. When people struggle for survival and corrupt Dictators live lavishly, what do you expect other than a caravan or people trying to rush the US border. Note that Canada is unwilling to take any of the people claiming that they are seeking asylum in the US. There is a US Embassy in Honduras, where matters of asylum are handled.
t
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cinparadise
5/3/2018 16:48 EST
Chucklesg,
You wrote:
"the racist Trump"
Do you have any evidence of this? Google the following:
Trump Rosa Parks Ellis Island award
Trump was awarded the Ellis Island award.
In 1993 Trump got sued by the Palm Beach county city council for admitting blacks and jews into his country club.
And you call him a racist.
Llseldon,
You wrote:
"Trump & what an embarrassment he is to represent the USA to the world"
Do you have any evidence of this other than the countries that are pissed off because he's pulling welfare from. The free give aways are over.
And the left says he's anti-immigrant..... he's married to one!
The world is pretty happy President Trump, he's ended the conflict in the Koreas.
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llseldon
5/3/2018 17:02 EST
cinparadise I’m talking about Trump’s behavior & language, it’s an embarrassment to the world. You think Kim & North Korea have given up & Trump won, I’ve got a bridge special for you in NYC, pick one BMW, Kim’s not giving up, you remember the USSR, KGB, they’re alive & well, don’t let your guard down.
BTW what does cin in paradise mean?
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cinparadise
5/3/2018 17:13 EST
llseldon,
You wrote:
"Trump’s behavior & language"
Oddly, that why he was elected president, the majority of the American people love it.
And the stats are out, more than 30% of registered Latin voters voted for Trump. Watch a Los Angeles city council meeting, the legal Latinos and African Americans want the borders closed.
Why doesn't the media share this information?
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cinparadise
5/3/2018 21:15 EST
llseldon,
You wrote:
"Trump’s behavior & language"
Oddly, that why he was elected president, the majority of the American people love it.
And the stats are out, more than 30% of registered Latin voters voted for Trump. Watch a Los Angeles city council meeting, the legal Latinos and African Americans want the borders closed.
Why doesn't the media share this information?
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salty70
5/3/2018 21:26 EST
My son got a $2800 bonus and my daughter got $1300. I went to Vietnam for 14 months and none of our weapons worked! I don't care if you don't like President Trump but he gets results!
I apologize for this statement!
Real Democrat and Republicans care about us! U liberal left wing assholes really need to move to Russia! See how you get along!
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salty70
5/3/2018 21:26 EST
My son got a $2800 bonus and my daughter got $1300. I went to Vietnam for 14 months and none of our weapons worked! I don't care if you don't like President Trump but he gets results!
I apologize for this statement!
Real Democrat and Republicans care about us! U liberal left wing assholes really need to move to Russia! See how you get along!
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Chucklesg
5/3/2018 21:44 EST
As a Vietnam Nam vet, patriot, and a human, Trump was Not elected by the majority, is clearly ethically corrupt, a proven liar, an unfaithful husband, and probably will either quit or be impeached. Facts you can not dispute, but you are welcome to clean his dirty underwear! Sorry, but Trumpers need to read the facts, admit that even though some good might come in NK, he is not draining the swamp, loses good staff weekly, and is narcissistic, among other personality disorders. But you are welcome to your Fox faux facts!
Moreover his approach to Latin America is insane while propping other countries that have little or no benefit to the US. The Chinese and Xi play him better than any foreign leader, though Putin is a close second.
His tax cut will be the biggest joke and the tremendous debt increase will bankrupt many with inflation and and a huge recession. But his rich buddies and many corporations will reap.
Have a nice day.
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llseldon
5/3/2018 22:32 EST
Well stated Chucklesg, I wasn’t going to even bother to respond to these ignorant fools but you did a great job, I agree with everything you said. BZ
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Panama2017
5/3/2018 22:34 EST
I agree with you too Chuckles.
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Chucklesg
5/4/2018 00:30 EST
Thanks to all. Im done for now, just getting ready to vote!, first in primaries, then in November.. i just hope civility, rationale, and honesty return to Washington. Panama will have to defend itself as long as Trump is the bigot dictator making America the laughing stock of every nation but. Israel, and Russia and China smirk on the way to watching the US democracy implode. Sad but true im afraid..
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cinparadise
5/4/2018 01:35 EST
Chucklesg,
You wrote:
"Trump was Not elected by the majority"
He did win the majority if you exclude the millions of illegals who voted.
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llseldon
5/4/2018 08:23 EST
cin paraíso. Get over it, Trumps a loooooser or is it sin paraíso?
Feliz 5 de Mayo manaña
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Panama2017
5/4/2018 08:32 EST
I'm absolutely voting. But he might be locked up by election time.
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llseldon
5/4/2018 08:59 EST
Amen Chucklesg
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cinparadise
5/4/2018 09:09 EST
Look at the mess that occurred under Obama that Trump has to clean up:
Worst Economic Recovery Since WWII
People are working two part time jobs with no benefits versus a career job
Record number of people out of the Labor Force
Record low number of Manufacturing Jobs
More then double the number of people on welfare
1/3 of all people aged 18 to 34 year living with their parents (first time in 130 years)
1/2 of all people aged 18 to 34 dependent somehow financially on their parents
Home ownership at 1965 levels
Six countries invaded by drones killing tens of thousands of innocent children
Record number of terrorist attacks on US soil
Record homelessness
America's credit rating downgraded twice (first time in history)
More than doubling the national debt
Racial riots not seen since the 1960s
Racial divide with police being targeted
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Panama2017
5/4/2018 09:22 EST
Okay, moving into alt-right territory now. Better to quit while you're ahead.
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marta231655
5/4/2018 10:05 EST
sorry but what does this have to do with Panama
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marta231655
5/4/2018 10:05 EST
sorry but what does this have to do with Panama
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shar501
5/4/2018 10:56 EST
Well said. Does anyone know of a President of Panama who has not been indicted upon leaving office?
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profman2
5/4/2018 11:56 EST
I find it amazing. For the two years I've been in this forum, it's always a liberal who has started the political nonsense and massive lies. I could contradict everything you said including the fact that a billionaire playboy having an affair with escort 8 years ago is nothing like the liberals of Kennedy, and LBJ who kept mistresses and many liasons WHILE IN THE WHITE HOUSE, and Bill Clinton turned the White house into his own personal bordello, yet, none of you cared an ounce about that. Really? and you can't even see how far over the top these clowns were over anything recent. And don't start with the Vietnam Vet crap as some form of your stature. I too served during Nam, I enlisted, not drafted, just they hijacked me and stuck me at ASA/NSA Ft. Meade Md delivering enemy troop movements to the front lines. Not bragging, or making excuses, just your vet status gives you NO credibility when it comes to US political bend. I guarantee you, we sit down in a debate (with fact checking) and anyone who supported Obama or Hillary would lose by a mile with any sensible person judging. Rather than blast you with a ton of facts, maybe now you'll understand why NO US political nonsense especially from Trump Haters belong in this forum. And funny, the only one who agreed it should be here, another obvious liberal. Keep this garbage off this forum and use it for it's intended purpose. That really is a smart win-win for everybody who is part of this forum. I believe the majority of forum readers would appreciate all of us for this concession.
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profman2
5/4/2018 11:56 EST
I find it amazing. For the two years I've been in this forum, it's always a liberal who has started the political nonsense and massive lies. I could contradict everything you said including the fact that a billionaire playboy having an affair with escort 8 years ago is nothing like the liberals of Kennedy, and LBJ who kept mistresses and many liasons WHILE IN THE WHITE HOUSE, and Bill Clinton turned the White house into his own personal bordello, yet, none of you cared an ounce about that. Really? and you can't even see how far over the top these clowns were over anything recent. And don't start with the Vietnam Vet crap as some form of your stature. I too served during Nam, I enlisted, not drafted, just they hijacked me and stuck me at ASA/NSA Ft. Meade Md delivering enemy troop movements to the front lines. Not bragging, or making excuses, just your vet status gives you NO credibility when it comes to US political bend. I guarantee you, we sit down in a debate (with fact checking) and anyone who supported Obama or Hillary would lose by a mile with any sensible person judging. Rather than blast you with a ton of facts, maybe now you'll understand why NO US political nonsense especially from Trump Haters belong in this forum. And funny, the only one who agreed it should be here, another obvious liberal. Keep this garbage off this forum and use it for it's intended purpose. That really is a smart win-win for everybody who is part of this forum. I believe the majority of forum readers would appreciate all of us for this concession.
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panamajames
5/4/2018 12:05 EST
A President who was not indicted upon leaving office was Martín Torrijos who was elected president and served from 2004 to 2009 just before Martinelli took office.
He was the son of Omar Torrijos who was never President of Panama, but considered the Supreme or Maximum Leader of the Panamanian Revolution.
He was born Omar Efraín Torrijos Herrera February 13 th, 1929 in Santiago, Panama. Died July 31, 1981 (aged 52) near Penonomé, in a plane crash that some blamed on the CIA and involvement with Noriega who never admitted anything in that regard to his dying day. Omar had 3 children and his occupation was Military Officer and his Army Rank was General. His story below and his claim to fame was the Panama Canal agreement & treaty with Jimmy Carter, former President of the USA.
Omar Efraín Torrijos Herrera (February 13, 1929 – July 31, 1981), more commonly known as Omar Torrijos, was the Commander of the Panamanian and National Guard and the de facto dictator of Panama from 1968 to 1981. Torrijos was never officially the president of Panama, but instead held titles including "Maximum Leader of the Panamanian Revolution" and "Supreme Chief of Government." Torrijos took power in a coup d'état and instituted a number of social reforms and his regime was considered progressive.
Torrijos is best known for negotiating the 1977 Torrijos–Carter Treaties that eventually gave Panama full sovereignty over the Panama Canal. The two treaties guaranteed that Panama would gain control of the Panama Canal after 1999, ending the control of the canal that the U.S. had exercised since 1903. On December 31, 1999, the final phase of the treaty, the US relinquished control of the Panama Canal and all areas in what had been the Panama Canal Zone.
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llseldon
5/4/2018 12:07 EST
Chill out profman2 & if you are calling a liberal you are totally FUBARed, I’m a registered middle of the road free thinker who doesn’t need a “party” to tell me how to think!!! Face it, open your eyes.
Saludos amigos de Chagres.
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4sarge
5/4/2018 12:17 EST
llseldon, IF You are a Moderate, Middle of the Road Voter, Karl Marx is an Ultra Conservative. I'm very Disappointed in the Leftist Politics, Anti American Sentiments in this Forum. llseldon, anything You post will be disregarded by me. SAD, lets Hope that your account was Hacked by Jon
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4sarge
5/4/2018 12:17 EST
llseldon, IF You are a Moderate, Middle of the Road Voter, Karl Marx is an Ultra Conservative. I'm very Disappointed in the Leftist Politics, Anti American Sentiments in this Forum. llseldon, anything You post will be disregarded by me. SAD, lets Hope that your account was Hacked by Jon
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shar501
5/4/2018 13:13 EST
Thanks for the info.
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llseldon
5/4/2018 13:31 EST
shar501 Mireya Moscoso
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llseldon
5/4/2018 14:10 EST
Thank you 4sarge LoL
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llseldon
5/4/2018 14:20 EST
It is interesting to be tagged a liberal for not liking Trump, q sera, sera.
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mghinton
5/4/2018 19:00 EST
every little store and market in the interior is owned by the chinese now ,, the gym i just joined i saw one of the owners come in the other day acted like he did not even speak spanish. is what they do but you can tell they understand everything you say .. they build a business then live upstairs ,, one time when i was liv8ing on my sailboat there was a large ship anchored off the area of choprrerra with lights off the navy swarmed it as there were a half dozen pongas coming and going ,, not drugs but about 300 illegal Chinese on the beach
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mghinton
5/4/2018 19:00 EST
every little store and market in the interior is owned by the chinese now ,, the gym i just joined i saw one of the owners come in the other day acted like he did not even speak spanish. is what they do but you can tell they understand everything you say .. they build a business then live upstairs ,, one time when i was liv8ing on my sailboat there was a large ship anchored off the area of choprrerra with lights off the navy swarmed it as there were a half dozen pongas coming and going ,, not drugs but about 300 illegal Chinese on the beach
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llseldon
5/4/2018 20:35 EST
Beware of the chinos, they are hateful people.
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shar501
5/6/2018 00:37 EST
Why does this surprise you? The Chinese signed an Agreement with Varela to open Panama to Chinese tourism. The Chinese will build a port for Cruise Line . Varela wants a rail line from P.C. to David. Since Panama depends on tourism and expats from US and other countries, there is not a lot of money for these projects. China will soon bankrupt Panama and ask for 51% of the Canal for payment. This is part of China's 25 yr. plan to take over the world. Why else approach Panama with a tourism proposal? This country can't keep the internet up or the lights on in Boquete.
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llseldon
5/6/2018 05:08 EST
Sad shar501 because Panama brings in a lot of money from the Canal operations to sell its sole to China.
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shar501
5/6/2018 13:07 EST
The illegals voted for Hillary who wanted open borders between US and all of Central and South America. The middle of the country where real people live, voted for Trump, including many Hispanics and black Americans who figured "What have I got to lose."
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Panama2017
5/6/2018 13:26 EST
Facts are important here. Agree that mostly the middle of the country voted for him. That is a proven fact. But all the rest is BS. "real people" don't only live there. And Blacks and Hispanics did not vote for Trump thinking there was nothing to lose. There was everything to lose in fact. And how exactly do you think all these illegals managed to vote. Can't believe that you actually believe that stuff. Wow
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Chucklesg
5/6/2018 16:05 EST
It goes to show that when any country has an immoral, liar, adulterer, for a leader, and he repeates the lies over and over, the poor people believe him...Venezuela, Russia, US.
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llseldon
5/6/2018 19:44 EST
Chucklesg did you see Rudy Giuliani this morning, so sad, he prostituted himself to Trump, I can’t believe the the people who have,
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llseldon
5/6/2018 19:53 EST
Krauthammer is another, I can’t believe it.
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Chucklesg
5/6/2018 21:05 EST
Giuliani is a good example of a good man gone senile. It’s only gets worse. The GOP is disintegrating as the US self-districts. The American style of democracy probably will not survive and Trump only hastens its demise. Move to Panama and learn Mandarin!
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volcan357
5/6/2018 21:56 EST
Panamanians are not going to learn Mandarin. The Chinese who come here will have to learn Spanish. Spanish and English will remain the two most important languages in the Americas. While the number of native speakers of Mandarin is very large, the number of non-native speakers is very small. By contrast the number of non-native speakers of English is very large. It will be very hard for Mandarin to be accepted as an international language. English will remain the number one international language in spite of how large the Chinese economy grows to be. There are more native Spanish speakers than native English speakers and the Spanish speaking population is growing much faster. English still wins when you add the number of non-native speakers. If your native language is English it is good to learn Spanish and vice versa but I say forget about Mandarin. It will never become an international language. Currently there are 400 million native Spanish speakers and 380 million native English speakers. Plus with English you have a very large number of non-native speakers. For those of us who live in Panama Spanish and English are the two most important languages.
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tmamato2001
5/6/2018 23:24 EST
Wish you were correct but there are 3 times more people speaking mandarin then Spanish and growing. In the next 25 years Hindi will be second. English will be third and Spanish will be 4th.. That is just the way it is. Could be Mandarin in Panama in less than 100 years is the main language but who cares. Mandarin is almost the most spoken language in Vancouver. Give it a few more years.
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volcan357
5/7/2018 05:12 EST
I didn't say there were more people who speak Spanish than Mandarin. Of course there are more people who speak Mandarin but they are mostly confined to one country which is China. And outside of China only Chinese who live abroad speak it. In contrast English has more non-native speakers than any other language. English is an international language and Mandarin is not. The only way Mandarin can become an international language is when large numbers of people who are not Chinese learn to speak it. I doubt if that is going to happen. The only way Mandarin can take over in Panama is that the government of Panama allows in sufficient numbers of Chinese immigrants so they outnumber the Panamanians. That too is unlikely to happen.
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Panama2017
5/7/2018 08:57 EST
If Giuliani is a good man gone senile then the president is a bad man gone senile. The whole thing is pitiful to watch unfold.
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llseldon
5/7/2018 09:01 EST
Pitiful good choice of words 2017.
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mghinton
5/7/2018 13:46 EST
please knock the political crap off please i get enough at home and on facebook this is for panama
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RedHatLady
5/7/2018 15:01 EST
YES... My post to stick to info about living in Panama was answered that this is an "Expat Exchange" and open for anything!!! Really!!! Besides the political posts that should be banned, also the banter back and forth of individuals who either don't have a life or their purpose in life is to challenge others. There are a few participants who post constantly about BS that should be banned !!!
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Panama2017
5/7/2018 15:07 EST
Here's the thing. It seems like your purpose in life is to challenge people...on this censorship issue. You do see that don't you? Why not just press the delete key if you're not interested? I do that all the time.
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Chucklesg
5/7/2018 15:07 EST
It is difficult to speak any language when the head is in the sand!
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llseldon
5/7/2018 15:09 EST
Ya’ all vaya la playa por favor
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dunnee
5/7/2018 16:12 EST
So I see a few folks are tired of the 'pure nonsense' meaning the TurkeyLickers who don't know how to spend retirement in Panama being grateful and enjoying each day.
So when I read boring monologs my response will simply say, TurkeyLicker.
Put that in your wig and smoke it.
All the best.
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shar501
5/7/2018 20:44 EST
I agree. Did you notice that Boquete Ning canceled "The Rant." Talk about spewing hatred.
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volcan357
5/7/2018 23:36 EST
Today I was talking to a Panamanian friend of mine who works at the Tribunal Electorial. He was telling me that Panama is going to stop requiring a visa for Chinese citizens coming to Panama. It is my understanding that Chinese citizens have been paying as much as 10,000 to get residency in Panama. So certain people are going to lose a source of income because of the change in status for Chinese citizens. I suppose more Chinese will be coming to Panama and buying up properties and businesses. Already the vast majority of mini supers in Panama are owned by Chinese. If you go to Colombia or the Dominican Republic this is not the case. These kinds of businesses in these countries are owned and run by Colombians or Dominicans and not Chinese. Maybe it will be a boost to the economy. Panama depends a lot on foreign investment to grow the economy. I would much rather see the Chinese come here than people from the Middle East because I don't like Islamic religious doctrine, Talking about religious doctrine when I was in Panama City I saw a Chinese evangelical church. It had a sign both in Chinese and Spanish. It was right next to the Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores where I was getting a apostle on some documents. I didn't think the Chinese were very religious.
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volcan357
5/7/2018 23:38 EST
Today I was talking to a Panamanian friend of mine who works at the Tribunal Electorial. He was telling me that Panama is going to stop requiring a visa for Chinese citizens coming to Panama. It is my understanding that Chinese citizens have been paying as much as 10,000 to get residency in Panama. So certain people are going to lose a source of income because of the change in status for Chinese citizens. I suppose more Chinese will be coming to Panama and buying up properties and businesses. Already the vast majority of mini supers in Panama are owned by Chinese. If you go to Colombia or the Dominican Republic this is not the case. These kinds of businesses in these countries are owned and run by Colombians or Dominicans and not Chinese. Maybe it will be a boost to the economy. Panama depends a lot on foreign investment to grow the economy. I would much rather see the Chinese come here than people from the Middle East because I don't like Islamic religious doctrine, Talking about religious doctrine when I was in Panama City I saw a Chinese evangelical church. It had a sign both in Chinese and Spanish. It was right next to the Ministerio de Relaciones Exteriores where I was getting a apostle on some documents. I didn't think the Chinese were very religious.
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shar501
5/9/2018 20:32 EST
Talking about the Chinese 25 year plan and the Panama Canal is certainly relevant.
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shar501
5/10/2018 10:23 EST
Agreed Profman2. Malcontents used to have a place on Boquete Ning, called The Rant, but it got so bad it was recently shut down.
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panamajames
6/5/2018 01:14 EST
From a statement issued by the IMF:
June 1 2018. A staff team of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), led by Alejandro Santos, visited Panama during May 21-June 1, 2018. At the conclusion of the visit, Mr. Santos issued the following statement:
“The economy of Panama remains among the most dynamic and stable in Latin America despite the recent prolonged strike in the construction sector and the relative weakening of economic activity in the first quarter which will lead to a downward revision of our growth projection of 5.6 percent for 2018 (by about 1 percentage point). At the same time, the recovery from the impact of the strike and the coming on stream of a large copper mine will lead to an upward revision of our growth projection of 5.8 percent in 2019 (by about 1 percentage point). Over the medium-term, the economy will gradually converge to its potential growth of 5.5 percent. Inflation will remain low and is expected to pick up to about 2 percent in 2018 mainly due to higher fuel prices.
“The external position is expected to improve significantly next year with the completion of the import-intensive mining project, the start of copper exports, and external service receipts related to higher traffic in the Panama Canal. The outlook is subject to downside risks mostly related to external factors, including lower international maritime traffic due to trade disputes, and a faster-than-expected tightening of U.S. monetary policy, while a stronger global growth would be an upside risk and a boost to activity.
“Fiscal policy is projected to remain guided by the deficit limit under the fiscal responsibility law (which we estimate to be about 1.5 percent of GDP given the expected contributions from the Panama Canal Authority of some 2.5 percent of GDP). Efforts will be required to curb the growth of current expenditures to provide additional room for needed strategic public investment. The authorities’ initiative to establish a fiscal council will further strengthen the fiscal framework.
“The banking system remains solid, well capitalized, liquid and profitable, with low non-performing loans, and the authorities continue to advance their agenda for improving bank regulations and supervision (including the implementation of Basel III). Given the need to continue strengthening the financial system, it will be important to take further measures related to financial integrity and tax transparency. In particular, the mission supports to have legislation approved related to the criminalization of tax evasion, which would bring Panama closer to international standards on Anti-Money Laundering/Countering the Financing of Terrorism, and tax transparency, thus helping to strengthen Panama’s position as a regional financial center.”
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catpurrs123
6/11/2018 17:19 EST
I joined this forum to find out helpful information about moving to Panama. Quite frankly I am thinking of moving from the US because of all the political bullcrap that is taking place here. Sadly, it appears that said crap about politics in US is alive and well in the expat community in Panama... I am glad I found that out now instead of after making the move. Thanks.
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Panama2017
6/11/2018 18:57 EST
catpurrs, what has this got to do with Panama's economy? The only time in Panama that US politics come up for me is on this forum.
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Chucklesg
6/11/2018 19:37 EST
If you move to another country and live in the area of gringo ghettos (like Boquete or Altos del Maria) you will always find Americans complaining about the US government, the local government, and just about anything else. Americans love to complain and now Trump has given them even more reasons.
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catpurrs123
6/11/2018 20:08 EST
Panama2017 My message was in response to reading all the back and forth that was going on about the US government etc. You are right, it has NOTHING to do with Panamas economy. Simply stating that I didnt realize that the banter here was just more of the same that is going on in the US.It has nothing to do with all things Panama. As stated, I guess all I have to do is delete. As a newbee, ive learned a lesson.
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Panama2017
6/11/2018 21:02 EST
catpurrs, got it. You can't imagine how many times I hit delete on this forum.
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volcan357
6/12/2018 14:03 EST
Once you become fluent in Spanish you can become part of the Panamanian community instead of the expat community if you wish. Or if you have a hobby like gardening for example you can participate in the gardening forum and talk about gardening instead of politics.
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thread is now closed
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