The World Free Zones Organization hosted its 12th World Congress in Panama City beginning May 12, 2026, convening global leaders to address the evolving role of free zones amid digitalisation and sustainability challenges, according to WAM. High-level talks included input from Panama’s president and focused on public-private partnerships for trade and investment.
The memorandum of understanding for hosting the congress was signed by World FZO Chairman Dr. Mohammed AlZarooni and Panama’s Minister of Commerce and Industries Julio Moltó. AlZarooni led an official visit to Panama City last year where he met with President José Raúl Molino Quintero and the delegation toured the Colón Free Trade Zone, PANAPARK Free Zone and the Panama Canal. This partnership is intended to elevate Panama’s status as a trade and logistics hub while broadening the World FZO’s engagement throughout Latin America. The congress built on the success of the previous edition held in China.
AlZarooni said in a statement that the World FZO is committed to forging strategic partnerships that enhance the role of freezones as drivers of global growth based on the importance of developing platforms for international dialogue and cooperation to keep up with the major shifts taking place in the global economy. “Our cooperation with the government of Panama represents a key milestone in our efforts to outreach to Latin American markets and strengthen cooperation with governments and economic institutions in this vital region,” he added. The chairman emphasized the value of such events in adapting to geopolitical change and economic transformation.
Moltó stated that hosting the congress represents a strategic step that highlights Panama’s position as a global investment gateway and opens new prospects for regional cooperation, technology and investment. “We are committed to providing all necessary elements to ensure the success of this crucial event, in cooperation with the Organization,” he said. The minister noted that the partnership would leverage the World FZO’s experience to enhance Panama’s business environment and global market access.
The event followed the 11th World FZO Congress held in Hainan, China, from October 10 to 12, 2025, demonstrating the organization’s growing international momentum, according to a Business Wire release. During the Panama gathering, the World FZO launched the One Zone Platform to boost digital connectivity, member engagement and collaboration. In a statement to the congress, UNCTAD Deputy Secretary-General Pedro Manuel Moreno said free zones can be where the new map takes shape and reaffirmed the agency’s support as a founding partner of the World FZO.
The World FZO World Congress serves as the premier global gathering for free zone leaders, policymakers, investors and trade experts from more than 100 countries. Sessions covered ministerial dialogues, CEO panels, technical workshops and investment-focused discussions on resilience, inclusive growth and industrial development. Organizers positioned the event as a key venue for shaping the future of special economic zones through practical exchange and collaboration.
