Arias

Tax and Fiscal Planning

Legal Tax Director

Ivelisse Bonilla Castillo joined the firm in May 2024, bringing over 15 years of extensive experience in Tax Law from both the private and public sectors. Recognized as a leading tax lawyer in Panama, with extensive experience in cross-border transactions, treaty interpretation, and Panamanian tax law, she has been a key provider of M&A and corporate legal services for clients in Panama, frequently supporting regional transactions. Her expertise also includes providing day-to-day legal advice to companies on tax and fiscal planning.

Throughout her distinguished career, Ivelisse has held significant roles in legal and tax advisory at renowned firms, including two major Big 4 firms. She also served in public positions at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and, notably, as Head of the Department of International Tax Treaties at the General Directorate of Revenues within the Ministry of Economy and Finance for four years. This dual experience in public and private entities has profoundly strengthened her ability to understand and address the complex legal challenges companies face today.

Beyond her legal practice, Ivelisse has been deeply committed to the training of future professionals. She has served as a lecturer in postgraduate and diploma programs on Tax Law at institutions such as the Specialized University of the Certified Public Accountant (UNESCPA) and Universidad Latina de Panamá. Her teaching has covered key topics, including international taxation matters such as double taxation treaties, information exchange, and efforts to combat tax evasion.

She also participates actively as a speaker at both national and international forums on tax-related matters. Ivelisse is a member of the International Fiscal Association (IFA) – Panama Chapter and the Panamanian Institute of Tax Specialists (INSPAT). She currently serves as Co-Chair of the Legislation and Tax Committee of the American Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Panama (AmCham), where she contributes to building a more transparent, modern, and secure tax framework for investors.

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Member of the International Fiscal Association IFA - Panama

Member of the Panamanian Institute of Tax Specialists (INSPAT)

Vice Chair of the Legislation and Tax Committee at the American Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Panama (AmCham)

Bachelor's Degree in Law and Political Science from Universidad Latina de Panamá

Postgraduate and Master's Degree in Taxation from Universidad Especializada del Contador Público Autorizado (UNESCPA)

Diploma in Advanced Education from Universidad Especializada del Contador Público Autorizado (UNESCPA)

Master of Business Administration (MBA) from INCAE Business School