Panama, The Most Prosperous Country in Central America

Posted on 2025-10-07

Panama’s economy continues to stand out as one of the strongest and most dynamic in the region. According to the 2025 Prosperity Index by HelloSafe, Panama ranks first in Central America and third in Latin America, behind only Chile and Uruguay.

Leadership Supported by Solid Data

The report shows that Panama achieved a score of 40.36 points, while Chile and Uruguay reached 43.19 and 42.48 respectively. Within Central America, Costa Rica follows with 36.39 points, ahead of El Salvador, Nicaragua, Belize, and Guatemala.

HelloSafe highlights that Panama’s performance is driven by its macroeconomic stability, favorable financial environment, and effective public policies that have supported sustainable growth over the past decade. However, the report also notes ongoing challenges related to social inequality, particularly in rural areas and among ethnic communities.

Growing Wealth and Investment Appeal

Complementing these findings, a separate study by Henley & Partners identifies Panama as one of the Latin American countries with the highest growth in high-net-worth individuals, recording a 69% increase over the past decade. This growth underscores international confidence in Panama’s economic stability and its appeal as a destination for investment, residence, and business.

A Global Perspective

On a global scale, Luxembourg, Norway, and Ireland lead the Prosperity Index, while countries in sub-Saharan Africa remain at the lower end of the rankings.

A Future of Stability and Opportunity

Panama’s regional leadership reaffirms its position as a key economic and financial hub in Latin America. With steady growth, a strategic geographic location, and pro-investment policies, Panama continues to position itself as a destination of prosperity, innovation, and sustainable development.