Here is another area that I get a lot of calls about.  What kind of business and how hard is it to do in Panama.  Well just like in the US, once you secure your real estate and get your permit to build out the space, it is relatively easy.  Here in David and Panama City there are dozens of franchise and business opportunities to look into.  How about a frozen yogurt store in David where it is hot all the time.  Click on the picture for a list of many other opportunities.

A Notice of Operations is the only process required in order to start up a commercial or industrial activity in the territory of the Republic of Panama.

During the first quarter of this year the Panamanian system recorded 7,396 such notices, which is about 404 less than in the same period in 2011. But exceeded the 7,043 notices during the first quarter of 2010.

Activities that do not require a Notice of Operations, include the liberal professions, either individually or through civil companies, since they are not considered acts of trade, exercise of nonprofit activities, exploitation activities related to agriculture, livestock, beekeeping, agroforestry or the like, the pursuit of activities other than an act of trade or industrial activities conducted by individuals or civil companies, and some other indicated activities.

Activities such as the sale of alcoholic beverages or the opening of a pharmacy or a bank will require approvals from other institutions and regulators.

Source: Capital.com.pa