The Panama Convention Center will become the region’s business epicenter from March 10-12, hosting Expocomer, Expo Logistica Panama, Expo Turismo Internacional, Expo Tech, and Expo Electrica Internacional Panama. These five events will bring together leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals from key sectors such as commerce, logistics, tourism, technology, and energy. To learn more about the importance of these major events, Aurelio Barria Pino, President of Trade Fairs at the Chamber of Commerce, Industries, and Agriculture of Panama, talks with The Visitor – El Visitante.
Why are trade shows so important for Panama’s international projection and tourism?
“Currently, Expocomer and the four complementary expos are of great importance because they strengthen Panama’s position as a regional epicenter for hosting world-class conventions. Panama, with its flight, logistics, and financial hub, is a very convenient destination for doing business, both within Panama and throughout the region”.
Approximately how many exhibitors will participate in each expo, and from which countries do they come?
“We will have approximately 900 exhibition booths spread across the five expos. Exhibitors come from every continent: Asia, Europe, Eastern Europe, and the Americas. Countries like Switzerland and Italy will be exhibiting for the first time, a sign that they see Panama as an opportunity to reach the region”.
How much economic activity do you expect to generate this year during this mega-event?
“For reference, the 2025 figures show that exhibitors and buyers registered commercial transactions exceeding $200 million. Similarly, the contribution to our country in terms of economic impact related to hotel services, transportation, consumption, and other expenses related to visitors’ stays in our country was significant. In 2025, it was $45 million”.
What new features will these events bring for their 2026 edition?
“This year we are digitizing registration and entry to the expo. With this, we are reducing our environmental impact by avoiding the printing of more than 10,000 invitations and other related materials. Digitization also allows us to have a more robust database of all visitors, which will be very useful for strengthening expos in the coming years”.
Photo courtesy: CCIAP