Panama's Bocas del Toro Faces Economic Crisis Due to Road Closures

Bocas del Toro Businesses Suffer Millions in Losses Amidst Road Closures Bocas del Toro, Panama – Road closures in Bocas del Toro, Panama, have resulted in significant financial losses for local businesses, according to a recent report by TVN Noticias. Merchants and hoteliers are expressing their desperation, with some reporting losses in the millions. The closures, which have been in effect for over a month, have severely limited access to the island, drastically reducing tourism. "We need the main logistical point of firm land to supply our visitors who come by land from international locations like Costa Rica," stated Alba Taguado, the spokesperson for the Chamber of Commerce in Bocas del Toro. "All these things are affecting us enormously in sustaining our business operations." The affected business owners have sent a formal request to the municipal council to explain the state of emergency and outline the support measures for the community. The video clearly shows the impact of the closures, with empty restaurants and streets. One merchant, Matteo Dotta López, stated that without tourists, businesses are struggling to survive, and the situation is becoming critical. The report underscores the urgency of the situation and the need for immediate action to alleviate the economic hardship faced by the community.