NEWSLETTER APRIL 2014

Introduction

"Welcome to the first edition of the World Trade Center Panama Newsletter! Through this monthly newsletter we want to interconnect our members and inform our tenants by sharing useful information about WTC Panama. We will also showcase the ongoing activities and our latest updates on upcoming and past events, as well as the international relationship of WTC Panama with other WTC's through the WTC Association." Mr. Remy Swaab, Executive Director of WTC Panama.

About Us

World Trade Center Panama

WTC Panama aims to expand communication, international market culture and business services. The primary goal of the WTC Panama is to bring together under one roof the businesses involved in international commerce and provide them with services that will help facilitate growth. WTC Panama is a business complex that connects various economic segments locally and globally. Services we provide: Business Services, Club Facilities, Conference Facilities, Exhibit Facilities/Services, Group Trade Missions, Trade Information, Tenant Services, and Office Space (virtual and physical). Learn More

World Trade Centers Association

The World Trade Centers Association stimulates trade and investment opportunities for commercial property developers, economic development agencies, and international businesses looking to connect globally and prosper locally. The exclusive 330 'World Trade Center' branded properties and trade service organizations are located in more than 90 countries and supported by 15,000 WTC professionals that deliver integrated, reciprocal resources to solve your business needs. Learn More

Close to Home

Administrative Visit:

Recently, Mr. Remy Swaab, the newly appointed Executive Director and Mr. Andres Muela, the Administrative Manager, together with the Communications Department, visited tenants in the WTC Panama Complex to introduce themselves. They took the opportunity to gather general and contact information of the tenants to update the administrative database. For more information contact us: Info@WTCPanama.org

Safety First:

Fire drills are exercises designed to evaluate response to a simulated emergency. They are a test of the fire/evacuation plans. Scoring amongst the highest in safety of the local buildings, the WTC Panama Complex continuously upholds its high standards by organizing a yearly live fire drill requiring the complete evacuation of the complex under the supervision of the Fire Department of Panama. All offices in the WTC Panama Complex participate in this drill and are compelled to assign one staff member as a Fire Brigade Member. By executing these random fire drills, WTC Panama keeps both tenants and visitors safe.

Members at Heart

World Trade Center Utah visits Panama:

WTC Panama had the pleasure of receiving a visit from WTC Utah. Mr. Guillermo Ronderos, President of the WTC Panama, personally gave them a comprehensive tour of the WTC Panama Complex and its facilities. Ideas were shared amongst both parties about future reciprocity between these two WTC's.Learn More

Rejuvenating WTC Panama Website:

WTC Panama will be rejuvenating and expanding its online presence by developing a new website presenting their information and services. The new design will also allow viewers to easily navigate the website through any browser as well as mobile devices using responsive technology. Future plans include a new Online Directory to showcase the Members and their services, helping them connect with one another and others around the world.

Member Acknowledgment

Words from: Roberto C. Diaz L. - General Manager, Hotel Four Points By Sheraton Panama

In recent years the hotel industry in Panama has grown immensely with regards to the amount of rooms, yet the tourist market has not grown at the same rate; which translates to the lowest rates and occupancy in the region. In 2014, the Hotel Four Points by Sheraton Panama is facing great challenges to meet these demands:

• Guest Satisfaction Index - excellence rating by customers
• A renovation plan
• Deployment of strategic optimization of operational costs
• Investment and training in human resources

This scenario engages us to stay competitive in the market by executing the renovation plan, which is primarily focused on: remodeling of the NEW Restaurant and Bar on the Mezzanine floor inside the Hotel (accessible from the Commercial Area in the WTC Panama Complex Hall), modernizing the Lobby and Rooms, updating the equipment and facilities.

For all the executives of the WTC Panama Complex the new restaurant will be the best choice for business breakfast, lunch and dinners. We are in the process of setting up a special offer to the WTC Panama Members and Tenants.
Note: the existing restaurant on the first floor already offers daily varied buffets that you can enjoy.

Panama News

Panama and its Economy:

In 2013, Panama saw its GDP rise 5.57 percent, which is predicted to be repeated in this year. In 2015 and 2016 there will be a continued GDP increase as much as 9 percent, the highest in Latin America. (Source: International Business Times) According to another source, BMI (Business Monitor International), Panama is set to experience one of the fastest real GDP growth rates in the world over the next few years compared to other Central American countries. Learn More

Expansion of Panama Canal:

In 2007, the Panama Canal (ACP) started working on a 5.25 billion USD expansion project in Panama that will impact the world as a whole. This expansion will drastically revolutionize the world's trade patterns which will allow for new opportunities to be gained. The Panama Canal will be equipped to handle New Panamax sized vessels with cargo capacity of over 13,000 TEU (twenty-foot equivalent unit); while todays Panamax vessels have a cargo capacity of up to 5,000 TEU. The new locks will reduce the locking time which will reduce congestion over water. This cross water channel is expected to double tonnage capacity of the Panama Canal. Although there was a sudden halt of the project this year, the expansion is back in order. Learn More

Latin America News

Investing in Latin America:

Latin America, a region with many cultures and economies, is a large emerging market that offers businesses in various industries and significant growth opportunities. Due to its wealth of natural resources, human capital and cultural tradition, Latin America gives ground to opening businesses that will bring long term development. Its proximity to the US makes both exporting and importing easy. Like India, Latin America offers extremly affordable and competitive labor which makes goods more attractive. Learn More

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