Public investment in science, technology and innovation in Panama is barely 1 percent of the Gross Domestic Product, which is insufficient according to experts. Data from the National Secretariat of Science, Technology and Innovation (Senacyt) indicate that in the isthmus about 0.13 percent of GDP is invested in this area.

The report states that Senacyt and the Gorgas Memorial Institute of Health Studies, two entities working to confront Covid-19, have between them a budget of 91 million 46 thousand dollars.

In this regard, the National Secretary of Science, Technology and Innovation, Eduardo Ortega Barria, told La Prensa newspaper that Panama is one of the countries in the Latin American and Caribbean region that invests the least in research and development.

He also considered it unlikely that in his term of office until 2024, the current Executive will fulfill the commitment to reach 1 percent of GDP in investment in this area as part of the Joining Forces Action Plan.

Ortega considered that the pandemic that is sweeping the world not only causes a health crisis but also hits the economy hard and this does not contribute to the increase, although science has clearly demonstrated its value in the complex situation.

Data provided by Senacyt indicate that in order to reach an optimal scientific development in the Canal nation, an estimated 700 million dollars per year should be invested, depending on the GDP.