Panama installs Innovation Commission in Microelectronics and Semiconductors to become a regional hub in the field


News from Panama / Friday, August 9th, 2024

This significant advance reaffirms the solid commitment of the Panamanian government to position the country as a leader in this strategic sector, fundamental to the economic and technological development of the nation.

With the participation of 17 representatives of the public, private and academic sectors, the creation of the Commission for Innovation in Microelectronics and Semiconductors (CIMS) was installed, marking a key step to turn Panama into a regional semiconductor center.

This significant advance reaffirms the solid commitment of the Panamanian government to position the country as a leader in this strategic sector, fundamental to the economic and technological development of the nation.

The Commission for Innovation in Microelectronics and Semiconductors was officially constituted in accordance with Executive Decree number 7 of April 30, 2024, which establishes its creation to promote the advance and development of the semiconductor sector in the country, in line with the priority goal of the government led by José Raúl Mulino.

“Today we have taken a decisive step towards our goal of turning Panama into a semiconductor hub. The creation of the Commission on Innovation in Microelectronics and Semiconductors reflects the firm commitment of our government to lead in advanced technology and promote an environment conducive to innovation. This joint effort between the public, private and academic sectors will not only strengthen our position in the global market, but will also boost the economic and technological development of our country,” Moltó said.

At the formal installation meeting of the Commission, the national secretary of Senacyt, Eduardo Ortega, presented a detailed account of the progress and actions that have marked the progress of this important initiative for the technological development of Panama.

We have been identified by the United States Department of State as a strategic ally in the semiconductor sector, highlighting our potential and commitment to contribute to the global development of this high-tech industry, Ortega said.

During the event, the work done to date was highlighted, which includes the realization of various specialized consultances, work tours to the United States and the recent participation of Panama, last July, in SEMICON WEST 2024, the most important conference in the world in the semiconductor industry.

In addition, the call for scholarships was recalled, open until August 29 through SENACYT, aimed at Panamanian students. This initiative is a crucial step to train the next generation of professionals in the field of semiconductors.

At the meeting, it was agreed to create three working subcommittees – Executive, Human Capital, and Safe Trade and Transport – to address in a specialized way key areas in the development of the semiconductor sector, thus ensuring a comprehensive and coordinated advance.

The Commission for Innovation in Microelectronics and Semiconductors is chaired by the Ministry of Commerce and Industries. The other participating entities include the ministries of the Presidency, Foreign Affairs, Economy and Finance, Labor and Labor Development, Senacyt, Technological University of Panama, University of Panama, Specialized Higher Technical Institute (ITSE) of Panama, Authority for Government Innovation, Chamber of Commerce, Industries and Agriculture of Panama (CCIAP),
National Competitiveness Council (CNC), Panamanian Chamber of Information Technologies, Innovation and Telecommunications (CAPATEC), American Chamber of Commerce and Industries of Panama (AmCham), Georgia Tech Panama Center for Innovation and Logistics Research, National Center for Metrology of Panama AIP (CENAMEP) and Special Economic Zones of Panama.