The approval of the Ley 519 represents one of the most significant regulatory changes for the revitalization of the Historic District of Colón. This legislation expands and strengthens the incentives aimed at promoting the restoration, conservation, and economic use of properties located within this historic area, creating a more attractive environment for private investment.
Law 519 of 2026 serves as a complementary legal instrument to the Colón Free Port regime, by promoting the recovery, restoration, and use of properties located in the Historic District of Colón through tax incentives, while Colón Free Port encourages commercial, tourism, and service activities in the province.
Both regimes, when applied in a coordinated manner, allow for the structuring of comprehensive projects that combine real estate investment, tax benefits, commercial operations, and job creation, contributing to the urban, economic, and heritage revitalization of the city. In summary, Law 519 recovers the property and Colón Free Port activates the business.
Tax Exemptions and Incentives for Restoration Projects
One of the most relevant aspects of this Law is the extension to the Historic District of Colón of tax incentives designed to promote private investment in restoration and heritage rehabilitation projects.
Among the most important benefits are:
- Exemption from real estate transfer tax for transactions carried out within two years following the entry into force of the Law.
- Exemption from income tax applicable to income generated by restored properties that meet the requirements established by the legislation.
- Exemption from import taxes for materials, equipment, and specialized goods used in authorized restoration and rehabilitation projects.
- Tax benefits related to contributions and donations aimed at the conservation of historical heritage.
- Incentives aimed at encouraging the occupation and economic use of recovered properties within the protected area.
These exemptions can represent a significant reduction in the costs associated with the development of real estate, hotel, commercial, and tourism projects. For many investors, the possibility of reducing the tax burden during the different stages of the project is a determining factor when assessing the profitability of an investment.
For investors who require support in the legal structuring of their projects, having legal advice in Colón allows for a proper assessment of regulatory requirements, heritage restrictions, and opportunities to take advantage of the incentives provided by the legislation.
At Coronell & Lam we provide legal advice in Colón, Panama for investors, developers, and companies interested in participating in real estate projects under special regimes. As a law firm in the Colón Free Zone, we support our clients in structuring investments, acquisition processes, regulatory compliance, and asset protection strategies, providing the necessary legal support to develop projects with greater security and certainty.
We invite you to contact us to receive comprehensive advice on investment and real estate development opportunities in the Historic District of Colón.
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