Panama’s gambling market climbs 16% in early 2026, online sector surges 57%

Panama’s regulated gambling market posted strong growth in the first five months of 2026, with total gross wagers reaching $1.3 billion, up 16.2% from the $1.1 billion recorded in the same period of 2025, according to data from the Office of the Comptroller General, sourced from the Gaming Control Board.

Type A slot machines remained the dominant vertical, generating $932.4 million in wagers and accounting for just over 70% of all betting activity. This segment grew 7.3% year-on-year. These machines operate in full-service casinos as well as dedicated slot halls and other licensed venues that do not require table games, provided they comply with the regulations set by the Gaming Control Board.

Online gambling ranked second in total wagers and posted the fastest growth, rising 57% to $299.6 million over the January-to-May period. Table games came third with $74.3 million in wagers, up 23% from the prior year. This category includes blackjack, roulette, baccarat, and poker, which are offered exclusively in full-service casinos. In Panama, such casinos must be located within hotels that have at least 300 rooms and must meet specific infrastructure, capacity, and entertainment requirements.

Other segments showed mixed performance. Wagers at Hipódromo Presidente Remón totaled $11.4 million, a decline of 6.1%. Sports betting shops generated $7.2 million, down 7.5%. Bingo halls reached $2.8 million, an increase of 6.4%, while instant games recorded $1.1 million, a drop of 18.8%.

The report covers casinos, the racetrack, bingo halls, sports betting, online platforms, instant games, and Type A slot machines. It excludes Type C slot machines, which operate under a separate regulatory framework and are typically found in bars, restaurants, and commercial establishments outside city centers.