Panama has launched its first digital free zone, the Panama Digital Gateway, in the capital city.
This open connectivity data center serves as a hub for data services in Central America, the Andean region, and the Caribbean.
The center offers the advantages of free zones for digital activities and boasts an environmentally friendly design with low energy consumption.
The project is a collaboration between Sparkle, an Italian international service provider, and Trans Ocean Network (TON), a Panamanian telecommunications company.
Unlike traditional free trade zones, this digital free zone focuses on digital activities such as server storage for data management and outsourcing functions.
In addition to its data services, the center also serves as a cable landing point, enhancing the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of data transmission.
The initial phase of the center required an investment of nearly US$18 million, with plans for additional phases that will total US$3 million.
Currently, the center has 650 cabinets for data storage and welcomes various types of organizations.
The Panama Digital Gateway strengthens Panama’s position as a digital communications hub, thanks to its strategic geographical location.
The country has the potential to install two or three additional fiber optic cables in the future, enabling global data exchange for companies like Google, Netflix, and YouTube.
This digital free zone represents a significant step towards digitization and economic diversification for Panama.
With its state-of-the-art infrastructure and connectivity capabilities, the center is expected to play a vital role in facilitating digital services and fostering regional economic growth.