New relations between China and Panama
New relations between China and Panama more trade and even more direct flights
After the announcement of the new diplomatic relations between the People’s Republic of China and Panama, great expectations have been generated and the news has been well received by the Panamanian business sector, and in the tourism sector where negotiations could even be conducted to attract more direct flights to Panama.
The Chamber of Commerce, Industries and Agriculture of Panama (CCIAP) that the decision will have a positive impact for the country.
“China is the second largest user of the Panama Canal, the first supplier of the Colon Free Zone and has increased its interest in investing in Latin America, we are confident that this is a strategic decision that will bring benefits to our country,” said Inocencio Galindo De Obarrio, president of the CCIAP.
The entrepreneurs hope to open the possibility of negotiating a trade agreement with a country of more than 1.3 billion people, increasing exports and imports, and attract new investments in Panama, especially in the field of technology and logistics, to mention Some, “added Galindo.
During 2016, Panama exported US $ 50.9 million to China, 22.9% more than the previous year, the main products being waste and scrap copper; Waste and scrap of aluminum; crustaceans; Wood in the rough and longitudinally profiled; Coffee, peel, husk and coffee substitutes, among others. In the same period, imports were made to Panama in the order of US $ 1,183 million.
The tourism sector is also seeing the news well, Sara Brown, president of the Panama Hotel Association, said it was good news to establish diplomatic relations with China.
“It opens an additional compas, is very good news” said the hotel.
During the press conference of the announcement of the signing of the agreements, Panamanian Foreign Minister Isabel de Saint Malo said that the cabinet had already been instructed to indicate agreements to boost trade, passenger cars, both in terms of tourists and investments ; The agricultural sector to improve exports and maritime and cultural.
Tourism Minister Gustavo Him said it is very good news because Chinese investments in infrastructure, theme parks, roads and hotels can reach.
“We see a potential because it has the resources and the desire to do things in Latin America, the Chinese market is already increasing in Panama and I already had meetings with Chinese operators and seeing possibilities for charter flights, but with the opening of relations this Weighs more, “said Him.
Now what they are looking for is a direct airline. First a direct line and then a promotion.
