Expansion Pipeline

The zone’s next growth cycle is being shaped by demand for space. With around 1,064 hectares under its footprint and approximately 280 hectares still undeveloped, the administration is preparing a master plan that could begin with a 36-hectare first phase in 2027.

For existing companies, expansion answers a practical need. Warehouse capacity has become a limiting factor for firms seeking to grow.

“Companies already established here are saying, ‘I need to expand; I am losing clients because I do not have more warehouse space,’” said Ortiz. “It is a good problem to have.”

A Multimodal Advantage

Panama’s competitiveness rests on geography, but the Colon Free Zone’s appeal lies in how that geography has been organized. From Colón, companies can connect to Atlantic ports, move cargo across the isthmus, reach Pacific terminals and access regional markets with speed. “What city has three major ports, a canal, a railway and highways connecting the Pacific and Atlantic in less than 45 minutes?” he said. “That is why Panama has such a powerful logistics platform.”

The Colon Free Zone is also broadening its investment proposition. Legal reforms under Law 412 have expanded the range of activities permitted in the zone, opening opportunities in data centers, film production, research and development, aircraft and maritime services, and other non-traditional sectors.

That shift brings the zone closer to other special regimes in Panama while preserving its logistics identity. Rather than competing with Panama Pacifico, SEM, EMMA or other free-zone frameworks, the strategy is to present investors with the best national option for their business model.

“We are part of the ecosystem,” said Ortiz. “If a client does not fit here, another regime may work better. If a client does not fit elsewhere, they may come to Colón.”

Human Capital Dividend

The zone’s impact extends beyond trade flows. It contributes to national revenue, supports local foundations, schools and NGOs, and helps sustain Colón’s role as Panama’s second economic engine.

The administration’s forward agenda combines expansion with reinvestment in existing infrastructure, staff conditions, user services and compliance. Transparency, certification and stronger audit capacity are becoming part of the value proposition for companies that need secure, credible platforms.

Education is also part of the investment story. Partnerships with universities and regional training institutions are seen as essential if new sectors are to generate local employment. “If we attract a semiconductor company, we want young people from Colón, graduating from local universities, to participate in those jobs,” said Ortiz.

Investment Horizon

For Panama, the Colon Free Zone remains more than a commercial district. It is a bridge between global supply chains and regional demand, between maritime tradition and new technology, and between national growth and local opportunity.

The next phase will depend on disciplined expansion, stronger interconnectivity and the ability to attract companies looking for a reliable base in the Americas. “We invite companies from every country to look at Colón as the logistics platform for their growth,” said Ortiz.

Mais au-delà des chiffres, c’est une philosophie qui distingue le groupe. « On ne peut pas réussir durablement en brûlant les étapes », insiste Karim Beqqali, rappelant que la rigueur, la transparence et l’excellence sont les seuls fondements d’une croissance solide.