Panama’s next housing-supply signal is now being collected on the ground. INEC’s Building Construction Census for Q2 2026 is running from July 6 to September 5 across Panama, San Miguelito, Arraijan, Colon and La Chorrera.

The Census Tracks Active Construction

The survey is designed to capture projects under construction, including number of works, housing units, construction value, built area, value per square metre, phase progress and halted works. That makes it more useful for supply timing than a simple permit count.

The Urban Ring Matters Most

Panama and San Miguelito remain the core high-rise markets, but Arraijan and La Chorrera are essential for lower-cost housing and commuter demand. Including Colon also helps identify whether logistics and port-linked activity is feeding into residential construction beyond the capital.

Mortgage And Absorption Risk Stay In The Background

Recent market discussion has focused on weaker mortgage approvals and slower new-home absorption. The Q2 census can show whether developers are still advancing units despite buyer caution, or whether halted works are becoming more visible.

Outlook

Panama’s second-half market should be judged by census completion and phase-progress data. If San Miguelito, Arraijan and La Chorrera continue building without stronger mortgage conversion, discounting pressure may rise in projects aimed at commuters and first-home buyers. Developers with halted works or slow phases will be the clearest risk signal.

Read more at Panama Housing Market.