The Barbados Chamber of Commerce & Industry (BCCI) recently led a successful trade mission to Panama from October 16-21, 2024. The mission, which was organized in collaboration with Propanama, Export Barbados (BIDC), Invest Barbados, the Embassy of Barbados in Panama, and Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc, brought together a delegation of Barbadian businesses to explore new market opportunities, establish valuable partnerships, and gain first-hand insights into Panama's growing economy.

During the mission, participants had access to exclusive business-to-business (B2B) meetings with Panamanian companies, site visits to critical trade hubs such as the Panama Canal, Panama Pacifico, and Colón Free Zones, and networking events with key industry leaders and stakeholders. The mission was tailored to foster mutually beneficial relationships across various sectors, including logistics and shipping, renewable energy, ICT and innovation, professional services, manufacturing, and more. The Ambassadors of both Barbados and Panama, H.E. Ian W. and H.E. Xiomara Perez also accompanied the mission.

“We are pleased with the success of this trade mission to Panama,” said Misha Lobban Clarke Lobban-Clarke, Executive Director of the BCCI. “This trade mission was strategically aimed at building mutually beneficial partnerships that will enhance business growth for Barbadian companies and contribute significantly to the broader economic development of Barbados. We were pleased that the members of the delegation were able to make valuable connections with Panamanian businesses and gain a deeper understanding of the opportunities in this growing market. We are confident that this mission will enhance bilateral relations and increase trade and investment between Barbados and Panama.”

Ambassador Walcott-Skinner also added that “the Embassy and the Government of Barbados are very pleased with the outcomes so far, as we are fulfilling the Prime Minister’s mandate of commercial diplomacy connecting the hub of Panama to Barbados.”

In addition to the organized business activities, the mission provided a deeper understanding of Panama's business environment, infrastructure, and investment opportunities. By facilitating direct interactions with industry experts and government officials, the mission enabled Barbadian businesses to better navigate the Panamanian market and explore avenues for trade and collaboration.

Following the success of this mission, the BCCI plans to organize follow-up virtual meetings and further trade exchanges to solidify the partnerships established during this visit to ensure that Barbadian businesses can continue to maximize the opportunities and partnerships.

The BCCI is committed to supporting the growth and development of Barbadian businesses. This trade mission is just one example of the many ways in which the BCCI is working to help Barbadian businesses succeed in the global marketplace.