12th World FZO World Congress to take place in Panama City

Image Via: Dubai Media Office | Cropped by GBN

The World Free Zones Organisation (World FZO) has sealed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the government of Panama to host 2026 World Congress in Panama City.

The agreement was signed by Dr. Mohammed Al Zarooni, Chairman of the World FZO, and Julio Moltó, the Minister of Commerce and Industries at the Government of the Republic of Panama.

The signing ceremony was held in the presence of ministers from the Government of Panama and senior officials from both sides. The announcement took place during an official visit led by Dr. Al Zarooni to Panama City.

Under the MoU, both parties will work together to deliver a high-caliber edition of the World FZO World Congress. The event, scheduled for July 2026, will gather decision-makers, free zone leaders, and investors from over 100 countries, in addition to attracting major economic institutions from around the world.

The 12^th edition is also expected to strengthen Panama’s position as a hub for trade and logistics while enhancing its visibility on the international investment map.

Dr. Mohammed Al Zarooni
Chairman – World Free Zones Organisation

“The World FZO is committed to forging strategic partnerships that enhance the role of free zones as drivers of global growth, based on the importance of developing platforms for international dialogue and cooperation to keep up with the major shifts taking place in the global economy. Our cooperation with the government of Panama represents a key milestone in our efforts to outreach to Latin American markets and strengthen cooperation with governments and economic institutions in this vital region. Home to one of the world’s most successful and innovative free zones, and renowned globally for its Canal, an engineering landmark and one of the most vital channels of international trade, this country stands as a pillar of economic resilience and global connectivity, which make it an inspiring model for our members worldwide.”

Julio Moltó added that, “Hosting the Congress represents a strategic step that highlights Panama’s position as a global investment gateway and opens new prospects for regional cooperation, technology, and investment. We are committed to providing all the necessary elements to ensure the success of this crucial event, in cooperation with the Organization. We value our strategic partnership with World FZO and look forward to leveraging its extensive experience in the development and administration of free zones internationally, which will enhance the competitiveness of Panama’s business environment and open our economy to global markets.”

During the visit, the World FZO delegation led by Dr. Al Zarooni toured the Colón Free Trade Zone, which stands out for its strategic geographic location and cutting-edge logistics capabilities.

The delegation reviewed key infrastructure and facilities and met with several officials responsible for managing the zone’s operations. They also engaged in discussions with local officials to explore ways to enhance the operational efficiency of free zones through digital governance and smart transformation, in line with the requirements of cross-border trade and the digital economy.

World FZO delegation also visited the Panama Canal, where they gained insights on its operational framework and its key role in enabling international trade flows while strengthening the resilience of global supply chains. During the visit to the PANAPARK Free Zone, the delegation received a comprehensive briefing on the Park’s contribution to Panama’s economic development.

These visits align with the World FZO’s commitment to strengthening the role of free zones as integrated centers for creativity, investment, and production, and to highlight successful regional and global models, further enhancing integration and the exchange of expertise among its members.

The 11th edition of the World FZO World Congress is yet to kick off in Hainan province, China. Scheduled to take place from 10-12 October 2025, the preparations are currently underway. It will be held in collaboration with the Hainan International Economic Development Bureau.

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