Organized by CAF, Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean
Over the past few days, the strategic conversation of Latin America converged in Panama. Kido was present at the International Economic Forum for Latin America and the Caribbean 2026, organized by CAF, Development Bank of Latin America and the Caribbean, at the Panama Convention Center.
This gathering, which many already refer to as the Latin American Davos, brought together more than 6,500 regional and global leaders, including eight heads of state, representatives from multilateral organizations, development banks, business leaders, academics, and several Nobel Prize winners. It has firmly established itself as one of the most influential political, economic, and intellectual forums in the region.
Beyond symbolism, the forum delivered something far more valuable, strategic clarity. Clarity on where Latin America stands today and on the decisions it must make to compete, integrate, and grow in a world shaped by geopolitical fragmentation and accelerated technological change.
Leaders Present: Political, Economic, and Intellectual Power
Among the heads of state and political leaders who actively participated in the forum were: Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva of Brazil, Gustavo Petro of Colombia, Daniel Noboa of Ecuador, José Raúl Mulino of Panama, Bernardo Arévalo of Guatemala, Andrew Holness of Jamaica, and José Antonio Kast of Chile.
This political presence was complemented by Nobel Prize winners, global thought leaders, and experts in economic development, sustainability, energy, artificial intelligence, and innovation. The result was a forum that brought together political leadership, intellectual depth, and long term vision.
Kido Present to Keep Its Clients at the Forefront
For Kido, participating in this forum was neither a ceremonial nor a social exercise. It was a strategic decision driven by a clear objective, to keep our clients one step ahead.
Being present in these spaces allows us to understand in real time the priorities of governments, multilateral organizations, development banks, and the private sector. It enables us to anticipate change, read early signals, and translate context into more informed, agile, and relevant decisions for the brands and organizations we support.
In today’s economy, competitive advantage is no longer defined by size, but by the ability to understand the moment and act with speed.
Forum Highlights
A Clear Message from the Forum
This forum delivered a clear message, the region is seeking unity. It is building shared spaces and looking for partners who understand the historical moment and know how to turn vision into action.
From Kido, we congratulate Panama and CAF for organizing an event that sets a regional benchmark, raises the bar, and redefines the standard for purpose driven events in Latin America. The level of high profile participation, political, business, and intellectual, was truly impressive.
Kido was in Panama to listen, analyze, and anticipate. Because understanding the regional context is not a luxury, it is a responsibility. Being close to where decisions are made and understanding the forces shaping the region is part of our commitment to every client.
At Kido, we aim to remain at the forefront, not only in tools or trends, but in strategic understanding, so we can better serve those who trust us, make informed decisions, and build relevant solutions in real time.
Knowing where we are is diagnosis.
Knowing where we are heading is advantage.
Acting with context is what allows us to generate impact.
Access the Forum Sessions
Keynotes, panels, and sessions from the International Economic Forum for Latin America and the Caribbean 2026 are available through CAF’s official channels:
➡️ https://www.caf.com