4,500
Number of cybersecurity professionals
Panama
2,500
Cybersecurity workforce gap
Unfilled positions in 2026
USD 22,000
Average cybersecurity salary
per annum
38%
Percentage of organizations with cybersecurity training
Panama
12%
Cybersecurity budget as a percentage of IT budget
Panama
Panama faces a significant cybersecurity workforce gap in 2026, with approximately 2,500 roles unfilled despite a total of 4,500 cybersecurity professionals actively working. This shortage hampers the country's ability to defend against increasing cyber threats, impacting banking, government, and port sectors.
Although the cybersecurity salary average remains modest at USD 22,000 annually, organizations are investing more in training, with 38% providing cybersecurity-specific education. Strengthening workforce capacity is crucial for Panama’s digital resilience, especially given its strategic geographic position and growing digital economy.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main challenges in closing Panama's cybersecurity workforce gap?
Key challenges include limited local training programs, brain drain to higher-paying countries, and a lack of awareness about cybersecurity careers among youth.
How is Panama improving its cybersecurity workforce for 2026?
Panama is investing in specialized training, international partnerships, and incentivizing STEM education to bridge the gap and enhance its cyber defense capabilities.
Disclaimer: All statistics presented are 2026 estimates and projections based on industry trend analysis, historical data, and publicly available research. Individual data points may vary from actual figures.